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A Sheaf of Golden Years 







MOTHER MCAULEY, 




A Sheaf of Golden Years 


1856-1906 


BY 

MARY CONSTANCE SMITH 




New York, Cincinnati, Chicago : 

BKNZIOKR BROTHERS, 

Printers to the Holy Apostolic See. 

1906. 



LIBRARY of CONGRESS 
Two Coole# Rocefved 

JUN 23 1906 



Copyright, 1906, by The Sisters of Mercy 
M organ and Twenty-second Streets, 

ST. TOUIS, Mo. 



TO THE 


MOST REV. ARCHBISHOP KENRICK, 

THE FAITHFUL SHEPHERD OF PUS FLOCK, 

THE TRUE FRIEND OF THE POOR AND NEEDY, 

AND THE UNFAILING SUPPORT OF THE SISTERS OF MERCY 

IN ST. LOUIS, 

IN TIME OF GREATEST NEED : 

THIS LITTLE WORK 
IS GRATEFULLY AND AFFECTIONATELY 
DEDICATED. 


PREFACE. 


The following pages record the life and labors of 
a little Community of Sisters of Mercy who came to 
St. Louis in 1856, and who there, and elsewhere in 
the West, have been ever since engaged in the works 
peculiar to the institute founded by Catharine Mc- 
Auley. They were brought from New York, where 
they had been previously established, to this city on 
the Western bank of the Mississippi in the above year 
by Father Damen, one of the greatest Jesuits who 
have labored in the West. The late Archbishop 
Kenrick seconded the design, by writing letters of 
encouragement to the Superior of the New York 
house, and promising every assistance in his power to 
the new foundation. When it was decided to send 
six Sisters to St. Louis, His Grace commissioned his 
secretary, now the Archbishop of Philadelphia, to 
bring the Sisters to their new home. 

St. Louis was in great need, in those early days, of 
Sisters to teach the parish schools, and it was for that 
work primarily that the first colony of Sisters of 
Mercy were brought to this city. 

Besides the parish school, they immediately estab¬ 
lished a home for working girls and children, Sunday- 
schools for colored women and young girls. They 
also devoted themselves to the visitation of prisoners 
and the sick. During all the fifty years’ work (only 

7 


8 


PREFACE 


outlined in this little volume) the St. Louis Sisters 
of Mercy have been engaged in the cherished works 
of mercy peculiar to their own Institute. To this, 
perhaps, more than to anything else they owe their 
great success. 

When religious orders are true to their original 
vocation the}^ merit and receive the blessing of God, 
and the assistance promised to their sainted founders. 
When they depart from that original purpose they 
lose their spirit and with it the grace and protection 
of Heaven. 

The Sisters of Mercy in St. Louis have been loyal 
daughters of Catharine McAuley, and they have well 
earned, and abundantly received the rich legacy of 
success and consolation promised them by their 
Foundress. They have accomplished a noble work, 
and their deeds of charity are recorded in the “Book 
of Life.’’ 

It has always been the policy of the Church to 
preserve the records of the labors and privations of 
the pioneers in every field of her charitable activity; 
and in recording the history of the first fifty years of 
the St. Louis Sisters of Mercy, the object has been to 
offer a stimulus to those who will come after, and 
supply them with a motive for still greater exertion 
and sacrifice in the great cause of Christian charity. 

The first Sisters who still live, and their co-laborers 
who have joined them since will say “Non nobis, 
Domine, non nobis, sed nomine tuo da gloriam.” 

D. S. Phelan. 

St. Louis, April 20th, 1906. 


CONTENTS. 


Chapter I. Coming of the Sisters of Mercy to 

St. Louis. II 

Chapter IL Visitation of the Sick. 19 

Chapter III. Visitation of St. Louis Jail. 29 

Chapter IV. The House of Mercy. 42 

Chapter V. Parochial Schools. 46 

Chapter VI. Difficulties. — New Trials. — The 

Founder Introduces Friends.—Early Benefactors 48 
Chapter VII. The Sisters Remove from Morgan 
and Tenth Streets to Morgan and Twenty- 

second Streets. 55 

Chapter VIII. St. John’s Hospital. 58 

Chapter IX. Foundations at New Orleans, La., 
and Louisville, Ky. — Dedication of the New 
Chapel of Our Lady of Dolors. — Novitiate.. 71 
Chapter X. Night Hospitality for Women.... 75 

Chapter XL Translations and Publications. 82 

Chapter XH. Springfield Foundation. — Golden 
Jubilee of Rev. Mother Mary de Pazzi Bentley, 
and Mother Mary Liguori Galbraith. —Foun¬ 
dation at Eureka Springs. — Conclusion. 87 

Poems Written on Different Occasions. 107 

Appendix . 171 


9 













Mary, Mother of Mercy. 


Mary, sweetest, holiest Name, 
After Jesus, earth can claim! 

Rarest melody, its sound 
Yields, where heavenly joys abound. 

Mother spotless! Mother fair! 

O, let us thy virtues share. 

Thou art sinless, let us be 
Henceforth undefiled like thee. 

Ever let our hearts, like thine. 

Rest in Jesus’ Heart Divine. 

O’er us. Queen of Mercy reign; 
Faith, Hope, Love for us obtain! 

Morning Star! let thy soft ray. 
Ever light us on our way. 

Refuge of the sinful, we 
Come, poor supplicants, to thee, 
Yearning for thy sympathy. 


10 



QOLDEN JUBILEE 

1856-1906 

St. Joseph’s Convent of Mercy in St. Louis, Mo. 

Morgan and Twenty-second Streets. 


CHAPTER I. 

®l)e Coming of tljc g>i6tcr« of to iLouis. 

'‘'‘Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy'' —Matt. v. 7. 

^‘The charity of God would not avail us, if His 
mercy did not come to our aid. Mercy is more than 
charity; it not only bestows benefits, but receives us 
anew, and pardons again and again even the most 
ungrateful.” 

“Oh, what an ineffable consolation to serve Christ 
Himself in the person of the poor, and to walk in the 
very same path which He trod.” 

“My legacy to the Institute is Charity.” 

Catharine McAuley. 

This trust of charity bequeathed by the saintly 
foundress of the Sisters of Mercy to her spiritual 
daughters has been not only safeguarded and defended 
by these devout women, but made to increase and 
ramify into a world-wide influence. 

Like the little grain of mustard seed, the legacy of 
Catharine McAuley has grown into a mighty tree; 

II 



12 


THE COMING TO ST. LOUIS 


a grateful shade for the homeless and the sick in all 
parts of the civilized world. 

Here in St. Louis, for the past fifty years, the work 
of the Sisters of Mercy has been a particularly vital 
one, ever equaling the steadily increasing charitable 
demands of our thriving metropolis. For pace by 
pace with the prosperity of a city of the world ad¬ 
vances its dark shadow; in the wake of its triumphal 
march follows closely the dust from its conquering 
wheels. Alas, the downtrodden cry at our backs! 
Verily “the poor we have always with us.” And it 
is these same poor for whom the Sisters of Mercy 
spend every moment of their consecrated lives. 

Founded in the “Isle of Saints” only seventy-five 
years ago, the Order has been furnishing golden 
records from the city of St. Louis during two-thirds 
of its lifetime. 

It was in 1856, while the Sisters of Mercy in various 
parts of the world were celebrating the silver jubilee 
of their Order, that six Religious from the Community 
of Sisteis of Mercy in New York, came to establish a 
foundation in St. Louis. 

This was at the invitation of Father Damen, S.J., 
at that time pastor of St. Xavier’s Church, who, realiz¬ 
ing the needs of the poor in the rapidly rising city, 
applied to the New York house for a branch of that 
Order which devotes itself to “the least of these.” 

The late Archbishop Kenrick not only approved of 
Father Damen’s request, but made a formal applica- 


THE COMING TO ST. LOUIS 


13 


tion for the Sisters, promising them his protection, 
and religious advantages equal with the New York 
Community. 

The following is a copy of the letter sent by His 
Grace to the Mother-Superior of St. Catharine’s Con¬ 
vent, New York: 

“St. Louis, 19 May, 1856. 

“Reverend Mother: 

“I have to apologize for the delay which has 
taken place in acknowledging the receipt of your 
much-esteemed communication of 9th inst. You will 
perceive by the signature to the paper you sent me 
for my acceptance that I have so far complied with 
the terms proposed. While, however, I engage my¬ 
self personally to the fulfilment of these conditions, T 
wish you to understand that I do so on the assurance 
given me by Very Rev. Father Murphy, Rev. Prov¬ 
incial of the Jesuits in Missouri, that as long as the 
Sisters of Mercy have their house in the parish of 
St. Francis Xavier, the terms referred to shall be 
complied with without reference to me. I wish, more¬ 
over, to make one or two observations which are to 
be understood as explanatory of the conditions which 
I have accepted. 

“i. The house is not, I presume, such a house as 
would be deemed suitable for a convent; it being a 
private residence which may be used for such purpose. 
I have not myself seen it, but rely on Father Damen’s 
assurance as to its suitableness in the above sense. 


THE COMING TO ST. LOUIS 


H 

‘‘2. The moderate support which the Sisters will 
receive will be $800 a year at the least. I have no 
doubt that small as is this sum, the Sisters will have 
no reason to complain of insufficient support. Unless 
I am greatly mistaken they will find the Catholics of 
St. Louis well disposed to assist them, not only in the 
matter of support, but also in the provision for a per¬ 
manent establishment of the Community. 

‘‘3. The Chaplain and Directors, ordinary, and 
extraordinary,, will be furnished by the Jesuits, at my 
request, and by my appointment. 

“Father Damen authorizes me to say that all the 
expenses of the Sisters, either for preparations for 
the journey or for traveling expenses will be defrayed 
by him. He has promised to write to Mr. Dunigan, 
the publisher, to advance to the Sisters whatever sum 
they may call for. 

“I shall merely add in conclusion that I esteem it 
as a great blessing for the Catholics of the Diocese 
that a house of the Sisters of Mercy should be estab¬ 
lished here; and that I shall always esteem it a duty 
and a consolation to bestow whatever aid and en¬ 
couragement I may be able to command in facilitating 
the success of the Order in this city. 

“I have the honor to be. Reverend Mother, 

“Your obet. servt. in Xt 

t Peter Richard, 

Sister M. Agnes O’Connor, Abp. 

Mother Superior. 


THE COMING TO ST. LOUIS 


15 


On the receipt of the above letter, Rev. Mother 
Agnes O’Connor selected six of her Sisters for the 
new mission, appointing as Mother Superior, Sister 
M. de Pazzi Bentley, who had been, up to that time, 
Mother Assistant in the New York House. 

In care of Father Ryan of St. Louis (now the Most 
Rev. Archbishop of Philadelphia) the little band bade 
farewell to New York on June 24, 1856, and began a 
tiresome journey to the West. Leaving on Tuesday 
morning they traveled until the following Friday 
morning, breaking the railroad journey by taking the 
boat at Buffalo, and later traveling by water from 
Alton to St. Louis. 

Upon this latter trip one of the Sisters, having 
asked the stewardess for a glass of water, expressed 
astonishment at the liquid mud which was given her. 

“Oh, then!” exclaimed the stewardess, “Queen Vic¬ 
toria herself, could get no better drink in St. Louis!” 

Arriving Friday morning, June 27th, they drove 
without delay to St. Xavier’s Church. Here one of 
the acolytes who had been serving Mass, upon hearing 
the sound of the carriage wheels threw the bell he had 
been holding to another boy; and rushing out on the 
side-walk began to shout at the top of his voice: 

“Here are Father Damen’s Sisters of Mercy!” 

Father Damen then came out to give them welcome; 
and walked beside the carriage as it conveyed the Sis¬ 
ters to their first house, at the corner of Morgan and 
Tenth streets. 


16 THE COMING TO ST. LOUIS 

While ascending the steps Father Damen asked 
Reverend Mother if she had chosen a patron saint for 
the new convent. 

“Oh, yes!” she promptly responded, “St. Joseph 
shall be its patron.” 

Father Damen was delighted with this choice, ex¬ 
plaining that he also had wished to give this honor to 
St. Joseph as he had placed the cause (the city’s need 
of the Sisters) months earlier, in dear St. Joseph’s 
hands. 

Here was a remarkable coincidence! Years before, 
when Reverend Mother (then a postulant in Baggot 
street convent, Dublin) had served the full time of 
preparation required before receiving the habit, her 
health failed suddenly; and the Superior was com¬ 
pelled to postpone the ceremony indefinitely. Fancy 
the distress of the fervent young aspirant! Added to 
the sharpness of her disappointment was the fact that 
the reception of three other postulants was delayed, 
on her account. 

In her trial she had recourse to St. Joseph, promis¬ 
ing that if her health were restored she would always 
promote devotion to the dear foster-father of Our 
Lord. Her confidence was rewarded. At the close 
of a novena her illness disappeared; and soon after 
she and her three companions were admitted to the 
Order. Now, in this St. Louis foundation. Reverend 
Mother saw a means of testifying her gratitude to 
St. Joseph, and determined to place the new convent 



NOVITIATE — SISTERS OF MERCY. 























THE COMING TO ST. LOUIS 


17 


under his protection; most propitiously for good 
Father Damen! 

Some time before this Father Damen had received 
a beautiful oil-painting of St. Joseph from one of the 
crowned heads of Europe. This he now presented to 
the new Community. (To-day this picture may be 
seen in the reception parlor of the convent on Morgan 
street.) Soon, too, a statue of St. Joseph was pro¬ 
cured; and when it was placed in a niche in the con¬ 
vent wall, the Sisters felt secure in the protection of 
their heavenly friend. 

Father Damen celebrated Mass in the convent 
chapel on the very morning of the Sisters’ arrival, and 
two days later the Blessed Sacrament was left to 
repose in the tabernacle. Now, with ‘‘Him and His 
Heart there all days,” the Sisters felt thoroughly at 
home, and they began their arduous labors of love 
in the field of the West. 

Most Rev. Archbishop Kenrick called, after a few 
days, to bid them welcome; and in the course of his 
encouraging discourse he remarked that when ascend¬ 
ing the steps to the convent, there had flashed through 
his mind the old saying, ‘^Nothing great has great 
beginnings.” 

That day he blessed the assembled Sisters, and 
gave them a fervent exhortation to take up great 
labors for the love of God and the salvation of souls. 

Their first Christmas in St. Louis was a memorable 
day for the Community, Father Damen celebrating 


1 8 THE COMING TO ST. LOUIS 

midnight Mass in their humble little chapel, and de¬ 
livering one of the most beautiful sermons they had 
ever heard. In an outburst of fervor he described the 
circumstances of the Incarnation to the rapt Religious 
and their pious young charges. With eloquent pathos 
he portrayed the poverty of the stable of Bethlehem, 
dwelling on the tender solicitude of St. Joseph, in 
sorting out the softest straw to be placed in the manger 

— a bed for the Infant God! “Heaven,” he concluded, 
“had come down on earth that night. The lowly stable 
of Bethlehem was at that hour a terrestrial paradise 

— myriads of beautiful angels heralded that midnight 
birth, and announced to the poor sojourners in this 
vale of tears the long looked for tidings of great joy. 
This day is born to you a Saviour, Gloria in excelsis 
Deo, et in terra pax hominihus.” 

Father Damen then wished all a happy Christmas; 
that the Infant Saviour might give them such a reple¬ 
tion of choice graces as would engulf all future sor¬ 
rows.” 

That morning, after six o’clock, another priest said 
three Masses; and thus was the infant Community 
strengthened and encouraged in its new home. 

Like the holy family of Bethlehem, the Sisters were 
poor in worldly goods, but rich beyond compare in 
heavenly treasures. 


CHAPTER IL 


Bi0itation of t\)t 

'“'‘I was sick and you visited me." —Matt. xxv. 36. 

On the feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin, 
July 2nd, within one week of their arrival from New 
York, the Sisters commenced their visits of mercy. 
Seeking out the sick and the poor in their homes, and 
attending to both temporal and spiritual needs, a vast 
field of neglected humanity spread out before them 
on every hand. Most rapidly, stories of their minister¬ 
ing kindness passed among the suffering people, and 
even where charity was never sought before the Sis¬ 
ters were wanted now. 

The good Jesuit Fathers aided them most gener¬ 
ously ; supplying provisions and fuel as well as spiritual 
consolations. And thus from their earliest endeavors 
here, the “special vocation” of the Sisters of Mercy 
shone out through the shadows of St. Louis. In the 
records of the past fifty years, it appears at first like a 
rising sun, then brighter, warmer, and more vivify¬ 
ing, until now it is a light so salutory that we pray, 
“May it never have its setting!” For while life exists 
here below who would dispense with sympathy and 
mercy? In our own experience how often the op- 


19 


20 


VISITATION OF THE SICK 


portiine word of encouragement, or even the kindly 
silence of a confidential friend, helps us to endure our 
burden. But to be friendless and sick: is there any 
state more desolate than this ? And yet in a large 
city like St. Louis there are thousands in such ex¬ 
tremity, particularly among the poor. 

Ah! how these sufferers love the very shadow of the 
Sister of Mercy; how they relish the little delicacy 
she takes from her bag; how they raise their aching 
heads to see the fire she has kindled; but most of all 
how their poor hearts soften and repent, as she speaks 
of the God-Man who came among us “not to will the 
death of the sinner, but rather that he may be converted 
and live.” 

Only God and His recording angel know the num¬ 
ber of conversions effected by the gentle Sister of 
Mercy; for, though she lets her “light shine before all 
men, she wants no earthly reward. True to her 
mission of consolation, her own interior solace is the 
thought — “for His sake.” 

But we must on no account suppose that the poor 
are all stray sheep. On the contrary, countless edify¬ 
ing examples of patience in misfortune lend great 
courage to the self-sacrificing Sister, and renew again 
and again her faith in human nature. The damp and 
gloom over many a discouraged spirit, however, yields 
to no helping agency as it does to the marvelous sun¬ 
shine of the presence of a Sister of Mercy. 

On one occasion the Sisters visited a woman who 


VISITATION OF THE SICK 


21 


had been left a widow for the second time. Her little 
girl had contracted smallpox, and the kind stepfather 
had caught it and died, just when the new home was 
brightest. Despair and rebellion against Providence 
overcame the bereaved woman, and sickened her unto 
death. The very name of priest became hateful to 
her, and hence, ailing in body and mind, the Sisters 
found a very difficult patient. Gradually their words 
of comfort and little deeds of kindness softened the 
poor creature’s heart, and before long the good Re¬ 
ligious had the happiness of seeing her repentant and 
tranquil in the grace of God. 

As time went on, the Community becoming more 
numerous, this charity work was regulated by dividing 
the city into districts. The Sisters went two and two 
to the various places taking an especial interest in 
keeping Catholics up to the practice of their religious 
duties. So indefatigable did they prove themselves in 
this particular task that soon, when they appeared on 
their Sunday morning rounds of a neighborhood, the 
men would thrust on their hats and run off to Mass, 
exclaiming, “Here are the Sisters!” 

The timid poor appealed to the Sisters’ refined souls 
in a remarkable way, and much decent clothing was 
distributed among them that they might appear in 
public, especially at church, without exposing their 
reduced circumstances to their neighbors. Among 
these the Sisters found many who, though advanced 
in years, had not made their first communion; and 


22 


VISITATION OF THE SICK 


these would be instructed in Catechism by the Re¬ 
ligious and then introduced to a priest. 

One of the oldest customs of the Sisters of Mercy 
is that of giving, daily, provisions to those who may 
apply for them at the ‘‘Office.” Each morning between 
twenty and thirty baskets are filled, and the applicants 
are given instruction and prepared for the Sacraments 
whenever necessary. 

Mrs. R. C. Kerens of St. Louis has contributed to 
this charitable work for some years; in fact the Sister 
in charge of the duty always relys on her as a ready, 
as well as a liberal, benefactor when the demands are 
heavy. Should the funds drop low, a line to Mrs. 
Kerens will bring prompt assistance. “He who giveth to 
the poor lendeth to the Lord, and He will repay them.” 

Back during the Civil War of 1861, when families 
were rent asunder by two cries of patriotism; when 
father fought against son, and brother against brother, 
St. Louis was the theater of many a tragic scene. 
For, though Missouri was in the beginning a Southern 
State, hordes of Union soldiers and Hessian substi¬ 
tutes were in control of our city from the capture of 
Camp Jackson, during the first year, down to the close 
of this fiercest internecine strife of history. 

When the troops first occupied the city the Sisters 
were naturally very anxious concerning the safety of 
the convent, and Reverend Mother made a promise to 
St. Louis that if he would protect them, she would 
give his name to the next novice received (this was 




VISITATION OF THE SICK 


23 


subsequently done). Wonderful to relate, the Sisters 
never suffered the least annoyance, not even a pane 
of glass was broken in the convent. Often the Sisters 
had to ride in the street-cars, which were filled with 
soldiers grasping uplifted bayonets. They would 
politely make way for the Sisters, and on one occasion 
a soldier put a dollar into Reverend Mother’s hand. 
The troops were continually marching past the con¬ 
vent, night and day. Once great consternation was 
felt by the Sisters in consequence of a halt being- 
ordered in front of the convent. Their suspense was 
of short duration, however, as it was soon discovered 
that a soldier had been stricken with illness, and was 
being carried to a nearby store for medical attention. 

The number of wounded and of prisoners which 
was assigned to St. Louis far exceeded the accommo¬ 
dations; and many of them had to be lodged in that 
part of the city known as the Fair Grounds. Yes, it 
was ‘Jair grounds” in the sense that one poor fellow 
was as badly off as the next. There, on a rough cot, 
under a canvas tent, with nature’s floor of damp clay 
for their carpet, those devoted sons of their country 
battled for their stricken lives. The Sisters of Mercy 
visited these soldiers every day and did much to al¬ 
leviate their sufferings, going from cot to cot dis¬ 
tributing little delicacies in the way of cakes, jellies, 
etc. Those who were able held out the regulation tin 
plate for the little gift; and though childishly grateful 
they would exclaim: 


24 


VISITATION OF THE SICK 


“Sure, Sister, we would be glad to see you if you 
never brought us anything.” 

There were few priests in St. Louis in those days; 
and we find that St. Bridget’s parish embraced the far- 
distant Fair Grounds. The late pastor, Rev. Mon¬ 
signor Walsh, attended to the spiritual needs of the 
soldiers; the Sisters to the preceding instructions. A 
great number of soldiers died in these tents, many a 
one having made his first and last communion through 
the efforts of the Sisters. Many who had never pro¬ 
fessed religion of any kind were touched by the lessons 
of precept and example which were taught in those 
miserable tents; and asked for admission into that 
Church, which, they said, “being the oldest must be 
the true one.” 

Often when Rev. Father Walsh would make inquiry 
for such-and-such a patient, he would be told: “Sure, 
Father, he was dying when the Sisters were here, and 
they baptized him.” Again, when the kind priest 
would urge an early confession, the sick man would 
plead: “O, Father, I want more instruction from the 
Sisters first.” Then Father Walsh would smilingly 
say that “there was nothing left for him to do.” 

The noble lay Society of St. Vincent de Paul sup¬ 
plied the Sisters with much reading matter for the 
convalescents; but on account of the large number of 
soldiers some books had to be marked “to be returned 
to the Sisters. But many a patient was heard to 
declare, “Priest or Sister will never get this book from 



VISITATION OF THE SICK 


25 


me.” He would ask to take it home for family read¬ 
ing, and in any number of such cases the result was 
the conversion of the entire household. 

The Sisters came across one old colored man who 
was dying of a contagious disease. He suffered in¬ 
tense pain and was utterly hopeless about his con¬ 
dition. Sister exhorted him to bear his anguish for 
Christ, and told him of the heavenly future in store 
for those who so consecrate their declining days. The 
poor negro was astounded, having never learned the 
doctrine of our Redemption. All his life long he had 
supposed that his soul as well as his body belonged to 
his earthly master, and that the only happiness to be 
attained at all was the approbation of his worldly 
owner. But now in his extremity to be told that “God 
is no respecter of persons,” and that with Him “there 
is neither bond nor free, but all are brothers in Christ 
Jesus;” ah, this was almost too much joy! 

Immediately he begged for Baptism, which Sister 
had administered by the attending chaplain as soon 
as possible. The time was indeed limited! Weaker 
and weaker the poor sufferer became, but happier and 
happier, until he calmly passed to the judgment of the 
Lord of mercy. 

During the war many of the wounded were con¬ 
signed to the Good Samaritan Hospital, which the 
Sisters also visited. Here, on one occasion, they made 
a convert, and instructed him for Baptism and holy 
communion. After his reception of these Sacraments 


26 


VISITATION OF THE SICK 


he experienced the most extraordinary elation. To 
use his own expression, “he was so glad to himself!” 

One day Sister asked him if he had even the slightest 
of spiritual difficulties. He replied that there was one 
thing that troubled him. “But I can not help it, if it 
is wiong, he said. Sister urged him to seek advice 
upon It. “Well, it is this,” he said, “I love the Blessed 
Virgin more than I love Our Lord 1” The Sister was 
deeply touched by the man’s simplicity, and assured 
him that if he loved Our Lady with all the love he was 
capable of, he could never love her as much as Our 
Lord loved her. And thus were his only scruples set 
at rest. 

The Confederate prisoners were confined in a build- 
ing known as Dr. McDowall’s College, and also in the 
Gratiot street prison. Among these were several of 
the most prominent citizens of St. Louis, whose 
relatives and friends provided the visiting Sisters with 
chicken, pie, cake, etc., to be distributed by them 
among the prisoners. 

The wife of one of these was compelled to earn her 
living in consequence of her husband’s incarceration, 
and, in order to do so with greater facility placed her 
two little girls in the Sisters’ Industrial School. That 
these children might have an opportunity of speaking 
with their father, the Sisters always allowed them to 
carry the basket which contained the provisions for the 
sick, otherwise the prison regulation forbade the chil- 
dren s admission. 



VISITATION OF THE SICK 


27 


The law of retaliation which was then enforced in 
St. Louis ordained that for every soldier killed in 
skirmish by one of the opposite side, a prisoner of 
corresponding rank should be led forth to be shot. 

Three soldiers were, at one time, under sentence of 
this law. As the execution became imminent, two of 
them who were Catholics made their peace with God 
and forgave their enemies from their hearts. But the 
third man was obdurate on this question, absolutely 
refusing to '‘forgive those who had trespassed against 
him.” Neither priest nor comrade could prevail on 
him to regard his enemies with any degree of peace. 

The Sisters, however, when the outlook was get¬ 
ting, if possible, more hopeless, persevered in constant 
prayer. Finally arrived the fatal morning; the men 
were led out to be shot. Father Ryan (now the Most 
Rev. Archbishop of Philadelphia), who, hoping against 
hope, had brought with him a vial of Baptismal water, 
accompanied the soldiers to the place of execution. 
Down knelt the three in line, and submitted to the 
pinioning of their arms. Once more the sympathetic 
priest appealed to the obdurate heart of the third man, 
and there, face to face with death, his revengeful 
spirit softened, and the poor fellow bursting into 
tears declared that he forgave everybody from his 
heart. 

He then asked for Baptism, which the' priest ad¬ 
ministered with deep gratitude for God’s timely mercy. 
Before the water of regeneration had dried upon the 


28 


VISITATION OF THE SICK 


convert’s brow, the command to “fire” had been given, 
and the three soldiers fell to the ground dead. May 
we hope that their liberated spirits heard the sentence 
of “Well done,” from that tribunal of last appeal 1 
The St. Louis City Hospital has also its history 
linked through every year with the kindly ministrations 
of the Sisters of Mercy, the authorities having always 
been most gracious in permitting them to visit any 
department of the Institution. If one could but see 
the bright smiles lighting up the poor wan faces as 
the Sisters enter, he or she would have some idea of 
the real mercy in these visitations. 

Papers and books are distributed here, and special 
kindness is shown to those in the consumptive wards. 
The sufferers from this insidious disease, consumption, 
perhaps more than any other class of patients are 
really appreciative of the little delicacies, which the 
Sisters procure for them through kind patrons. For 
some years the orderly of this department, an old 
Irishman named “Tim,” was a great aid to the Sisters 
in finding out the Catholics, and also those nearest the 
grave. 

Unfortunately tasks have so accumulated durino- 
the past few years diat the Sisters of Mercy can only 
make occasional visits now to the City Hospital. 




CHAPTER III. 


©tfiittation of g)t. iLouts 31 ail. 


“I was in prison^ and you came to me." —Matt. xxv. 36. 


The Sisters of Mercy made their first visit to the 
St. Louis Jail on July i6, 1856. In this work they 
have continued up to the present time, and though 
arduous it is performed cheerfully for the love of 
God. And it is by no means an ungrateful task, for 
constantly the unfortunate prisoners are coming to a 
conversion of heart, repenting of the past, resigning 
themselves to the Divine Will in their present cap¬ 
tivity, and making resolutions of atonement for the 
future. 

One unfortunate murderer, having become a Ca¬ 
tholic, firmly determined to pass the remaining days 
of his life in prayer and penance. He refused to see 
any visitors excepting his confessor, the Sisters, and 
his mother. He also denied himself all those little 
luxuries which go so far to make prison life endurable, 
such as cigars, deserts, sweets, and even the news¬ 
papers. For reading he confined himself to the 
prayer-book and the “Imitation of Christ.” At his 
request the Sisters had given him a well compiled 
manual of pious exercises, and from it he took a set 


30 


VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 


form of prayers for daily recital. Every Friday, at 
three in the afternoon, he made the Way of the Cross. 
Should his mother bring him any delicacy he sent it 
at once to a sick prisoner, or to one who suffered from 
the prison fare. On learning that voluntary acts of 
mortification were more meritorious than mere 
patience, this fervent convert seized every opportunity 
of punishing himself or serving his companions. Thus 
he persevered to the very end, happy, and hopeful of 
securing the treasures of God’s love. 

Another poor man had been arrested and imprisoned 
very hurriedly, the officer ignoring his plea to be taken 
for a moment’s talk with his two motherless little 
girls. The thought of his children’s desolation and 
exposure so beset the man, that he was almost in a 
trance during his trial. When he returned to his cell 
after hearing his condemnation to ten years in the 
Penitentiary, he was visited by two Sisters of Mercy. 
To them he made an appeal for the future of his little 
girls, pleading more eloquently than he could have 
done for his own liberty. His request was granted; 
the Sisters took charge of the children, placing them 
in their Industrial School, and had them baptized and 
instructed in religion. When they were educated and 
sufficiently grown these girls were given positions in 
respectable families, their kind benefactors keeping up 
an interest in their welfare. When the father had 
been discharged he returned to claim his children — 
two daughters of modest demeanor and industrious 


VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 31 

habits; young women who were a credit, not only to 
their father, but to the good Sisters who had more 
than replaced him during ten long years. 

Another man under charge of murder spent five 
years of miserable suspense in jail, while his father 
was having his case appealed and re-appealed. After 
his first trial the Sisters, in hopes of doing merciful 
work, visited him, and spoke consolingly. But no: he 
was taciturn, would have none of their consolation 
or advice, and at the mention of religion would be¬ 
come angry. The good ladies, however, did not des¬ 
pair; but would leave little gifts as they passed his 
cell, and unceasingly prayed for his unhappy soul. 

Perhaps two years passed in this way when an ill¬ 
ness brought him low. The doctors declared him to 
be a victim of consumption. The Sisters upon hearing 
this redoubled their acts of kindness and were re¬ 
warded by a great change of demeanor. Where before 
he would hardly speak, now a pathetic desire for sym¬ 
pathy was plainly shown, until a day came when he 
poured forth a detailed story of his early life. And 
what a good boyhood his had been! 

Far away, in Northern Europe, a pious mother had 
brought up this son in the love and fear of God. As 
a child she had placed him in the ranks of the acolytes, 
and many a time she had followed her boy as he 
strewed flowers in these beautiful processions of the 
Blessed Sacrament so piously observed in the Father- 
land. He attended a Catholic school, and served his 


32 


VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 


religion faithfully until his emigration at the age of 
nineteen to America. 

In a strange country, removed from the good in¬ 
fluence of his mother, he soon adopted the careless 
ways of his unbelieving father, who had emigrated 
with him. Gradually he reached a condition of antag¬ 
onism toward everything Catholic, as if his remorse 
were to be choked by hatred. As the ancient saying 
puts it: “Corruptio optimi pessima” — The best when 
corrupted become the worst. After the Sisters had 
heard his story they were more than ever hopeful of 
his conversion. When the day set forth for the ex¬ 
ecution of this unfortunate man arrived he was too 
weak to walk from his cell, and the clemency of a 
decent death-bed was extended to him. It was sug¬ 
gested to send him to his father’s house, but the suf¬ 
ferer protested: “No; he would never let me see a 
priest! If the Sisters of Mercy will take me at their 
hospital, I would rather go there.” In accordance 
with this wish, two prison officials called on the Mother 
Superior and laid the case before her. “Most cer¬ 
tainly,” she replied; “we will gladly take him. We 
have been trying to gain that soul for the past five 
years.” 

Hardly had the poor patient been stretched upon 
the comfortable hospital bed when he begged for the 
consolation of a priest, who came at once. With 
humility of word and tears of honest sorrow the 
penitent made a full confession of all those stray years. 



FIRST CONVENT OF MERCY IN ST. LOUIS — MORGAN & lOTH STS. 








































VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 


33 


When holy communion had been given him he acted 
like one translated into a region above mortality — so 
calm was he and so hopeful! Afterwards on seeing 
a Sister at the side of his bed he exclaimed: “What 
do you think, Sister? Father shook hands zvith me — 
after hearing the confession that I had to make!” 
Later on he asked to see his wife, from whom he had 
been estranged for some time. The poor woman feared 
to come, however, until she had seen the priest. Upon 
being assured of the sick man’s repentance, she lost 
no further time in complying with his request, and a 
complete reconciliation was the result. 

Although his father had arranged to pay only ward 
rates for the care of the invalid, the Sisters, wishing 
to brighten his last days in every way, placed him in 
a private room, which kindness he deeply appreciated, 

“Sister,” said he, on the last day of his life, “my 
right arm hurts dreadfully, but it is just!” He added, 
in a weaker voice, “that is the hand that did the 
deed!” 

Again and again he would humbly acknowledge 
his guilt without making any excuses for himself. The 
Sisters had given him a crucifix which had been in- 
dulgenced by Pope Pius IX. for grace at the hour of 
death. This he would press so closely against his 
heart that the figure of a cross became imprinted upon 
his garment. Every little while he would say: “God 
has been very good to me; I do not deserve it!” 

In such dispositions of penance and prayer the angel 


34 


VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 


of death found him, and he obeyed the summons peace¬ 
fully, murmuring the sweet names of Jesus and Mary. 

To what may we ascribe such a conversion? With¬ 
out doubt to the Catholic training of his youth! What 
‘ else but the good seed of moral training which, though 
dormant, had not died, awakened under the persever¬ 
ing mercy of the Sisters! 

In another case, a prisoner whom the Sisters visited, 
a man under sentence of death for a most horrible 
murder, experienced a change of heart during a sermon 
which was preached in jail by one of the Jesuit Fathers. 
The text chosen, “There shall be joy in heaven over 
one sinner who doth penance,” etc., made a profound 
impression on the man, and he asked for religious in¬ 
struction. After he had been baptized his fervor be¬ 
came very remarkable. 

About this time his father came over from Europe; 
and, after exhausting every legal means in fruitless 
efforts to have his son’s sentence commuted to one of 
life imprisonment, he had recourse to his brother Free¬ 
masons. They thoroughly reviewed the case, and ex¬ 
pressed confidence of success in having the sentence 
changed; but only on one condition. Within hearing 
of the prisoner they plainly expressed themselves: “If 
he would forswear the Catholic religion they would 
put him on his feet again.” Yet great as was the 
temptation the man chose a disgraceful death rather 
than deny his Lord! 

His bereaved mother and sister called on the Sisters 


VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 


35 


of Mercy after his burial, and thanked them for their 
unremitting kindness to their dear one, saying that he 
had often declared that the Sisters were the only ones 
who had been kind to him in his prison days. Since 
then every Easter and Christmas mail brings the Re¬ 
ligious a token of grateful remembrance from these 
relatives far across the sea. 

A prisoner whom we will call George, having had 
his sentence commuted, served his term in the Peni¬ 
tentiary, and one midwinter day found himself restored 
to liberty. His high hopes fell; he soon realized that 
he was in the grip of another punishment — that he 
was absolutely friendless! Suspicion dogged his steps, 
try as he would to obtain honorable hard work. To 
use his own words, ‘‘Penitentiary seemed written upon 
his brows.” His one prop of existence was his re¬ 
ligion, the Catholic Church, which he had embraced 
while in jail. To this he was true, and also to his 
pledge of abstinence, which had closely followed his 
conversion. Many a time he found it hard to resist 
the offer of an odd job for plenty of food and drink at 
a saloon. But before his mind at such a moment would 
invariably come the pleading, earnest face of the Sis¬ 
ter of Mercy who had induced him to reform, and he 
would hasten away from the temptation. 

At the risk of being shot or arrested, George sought 
shelter at night in vacant houses and stables. At the 
end of two weeks came a providential snow-storm, and 
he, after several rebuffs because of not having his own 


36 VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 

shovel, was given the work of cleaning off the steps 
and pavement of a gentleman’s house. In after years 
he said that this gentleman’s command, which was 
given to a house-servant, to “lend him a shovel,” was 
the turning-point in his fortune. Soon he secured out- 
of-door work from several in that neighborhood, and 
proved himself so trustworthy that, before long, he 
was sent on important errands. One valet, becoming 
envious, suggested to his master that “nothing was 
known of the tramp.” “I know that he does my bid¬ 
ding in silence,” was the stinging reply. George also 
became popular with the children of the neighborhood. 
No one else could repair their toys or make their kites 
as well. The secret of his success was his observance 
of humility, a virtue advised continually by his best 
friend, the parish priest. “Remember to freely give 
that kindness and forgiveness that you yourself stood 
so much in need of once,” the good man would repeat 
to him. 

Another of George’s advisers was an old cook, who 
having lost a son of about his age took great interest 
in the lonely boy. She it was who told him to apply 
for a place of coachman nearby, warning him “to go 
in by the back door, and keep your eyes on the floor 
while talking to the gentleman.” After some hesita¬ 
tion, because of his lack of references, he was engaged 
here, and held the position for several years. In all 
adversity he fell back upon his priestly friend, and 
having at his advice taken out papers of citizenship he 



VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 


37 


was at last immune from being arrested merely “on 
suspicion” (because of his old Penitentiary record) ; 
and from that time on advanced rapidly in the way of 
prosperity. 

Years before George had made the acquaintance of 
a priest in such an extraordinary manner that the 
memory of it was a saving influence. It appears that 
his childhood home was ruined by a cruel stepfather ; 
that a little sister was driven to a fatal accident by this 
man, and that when she lay dying the brother, George, 
in desperation ran for a neighboring priest. He 
responded and attended the child to the end, which 
was peaceful and holy. Two years later the dying 
mother sent for the same priest and was converted to 
the Catholic faith in her last hours. 

George was driven from home, and steadily sank in 
the wickedness of the world, yet the old confldence in 
God’s priest survived it all! 

One day after he had married and accumulated quite 
a fortune, George called on the Sisters of Mercy, and 
asked to see the Sister who far back in the jail years 
had been his good angel. On hearing of her death he 
exclaimed, “All my success in life is due, after God, 
to that saintly Sister!” And thereupon he told the 
story of his life, as above related. To-day his sons 
are men of the best character; pillars of the Church as 
well as of the State. 

The Sisters when visiting the prison always carry a 
number of books, magazines, and newspapers; and 


VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 


38 

they also provide clothing for any needy person who 
may be going up to trial. They relate an amusing in¬ 
cident in regard to bringing wearing apparel to the 
jail. One day having stowed many things beneath the 
folds of their ample cloaks, they found one coat over¬ 
looked ! After a moment Sister disposed of the diffi¬ 
culty by tying it about her with cords, under her cloak. 
When aboard the street-car, which had no other 
passengers but two gentlemen, the Religious, bound in 
the coat, was like one in a straight jacket, and had to 
remain standing. One of the gentlemen arose, and 
politely asked her to be seated. Not satisfied with her 
evasive answer he addressed her again: '‘Sister, is it 
because we two men are the only other occupants of 
the car, that you will not sit down?” To put him at 
ease Sister was forced to tell about the coat that she 
was bringing to one of her “boys” in prison. The 
gentleman, though amused, was edified and taking out 
his purse gave her five dollars for her charities. Re¬ 
peating the story to his companion he soon returned 
with another five dollar bill from the second man to 
“get something for her boys.” 

When this incident was related during Community 
recreation that evening, the Sisters enjoyed it greatly, 
and the victim of their laughter told them that if her 
future predicaments brought as much material assist¬ 
ance for “her boys” as this one had, she would never 
grudge them having fun at her expense. 

Nowadays the prison officials are more lenient than 


VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 


39 


formerly, especially in the matter of observing holi¬ 
days. Christmas is now the occasion of much feast¬ 
ing. Years ago the Sisters alone brought good din¬ 
ners to the friendless prisoners on this day; and they 
still remain faithful to the religious side of this feast 
in the jail. 

Since 1886 they have had Mass celebrated in this 
prison on Christmas morning. Mrs. R. C. Kerens 
had gladly listened to their importunities on this sub¬ 
ject, and when she had informed them of her success 
in securing the necessary permission, the Religious 
almost outdid themselves in beautifying the altar 
which they placed in the center of the “look-out”. 

The jailer allowed all prisoners to attend, the divine 
services, and many availed themselves of the privilege, 
filing out of their cells and into the bench-rows with 
orderly and respectful demeanor. The fine choir of 
the old Cathedral, accompanied by a melodeon, sang 
one of the grand old Masses. Rev. Father Van Krevel, 
S.J., was celebrant, and Rev. Father Hoeffer, one of 
the most renowned orators in the Society of Jesus, 
delivered the sermon. That he might be better heard 
the speaker mounted a deal table. So eloquent was 
his story of Christ’s reformation of the social world 
that all the audience seemed spellbound! Drawing a 
picture of the wickedness prevalent before the first 
Christmas, Father Hoeffer then explained the immense 
changes effected by the Gospel; dwelling earnestly 
and long upon the hope of salvation which was yet in 


40 


VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 


Store for all who would repent. (One prisoner was 
converted by this sermon.) 

The Catholic prisoners, who had been to confession 
on the previous day, approached holy communion at 
this Mass, each bearing a card which read: “Ad Com- 
munionem, Christmas, 1886,” and was subscribed with 
the confessor’s name. Two little acolytes held the 
communion cloth, and each prisoner, upon showing 
his card, was given holy communion, thus obviating 
any abuse. 

After the services were over, the Sisters of Mercy 
distributed a breakfast of hot coffee, sandwiches, and 
fruit. Considerable comment was evoked by this cele¬ 
bration, especially among the Protestant ministers, 
who published their criticisms in the daily papers — 
all denouncing the jailer for partiality. He, however, 
reminded them that the Y. M. C. A. had been holding 
Sunday afternoon services in the jail for years, and 
so acquitted himself of the charge. 

The following Easter saw a second Catholic service 
in this dark prison. Rev. Father Tihen of St. John’s 
Church was the celebrant on this occasion, and eleven 
Christian Brothers, accompanied by their college brass 
band had charge of the music. 

For a while the spiritual charge of the Catholics in 
the jail was centered in the pastor of St. John’s 
Church; but on his request to be relieved of it because 
of onerous parish duties, Archbishop Kain made of¬ 
ficial request of the Jesuits to extend their kind services 


VISITATION OF ST. LOUIS JAIL 


41 


here. Father McErlane, S.J., was duly appointed, 
and at once threw himself heart and soul into this 
work of mercy. His zeal and patience with the un¬ 
fortunate prisoners furnish almost incredible results 
in the way of conversion or reformation. 

Twice a month he celebrates Sunday services in the 
jail. The altar on these days is prepared by the Sisters 
of Mercy, Mrs. J. L. D. Morrison lending them 
financial assistance in the purchase of linen, candles, 
and other necessities or decorations. She also contri¬ 
butes substantially toward providing the prisoners’ 
Christmas breakfast. 


CHAPTER IV. 


grilf i^oufic of apcrc? 

“/ was a stranger and you took me in." Matt.,^xxv. 35 

The “House of Mercy ’ was opened on Dec. 12, 
1856. The good Jesuit Fathers were again the fore¬ 
most helpers in this undertaking, realizing, as they 
did, how much this free shelter is needed by children 
and working-girls in a large city. 

As it was this particular charity which had de¬ 
termined the vocation of Mother Catharine McAuley, 
and the Order of Mercy itself, it has always lain most 
deep-rooted and cherished among the many noble 
offices of the devoted Sisters. 

This protection of girls of good character is ac¬ 
complished in a most complete manner, for thorough 
instruction in religious as well as household duties is 
given at the House of Mercy, while the girls are too 
young to hire out; and even after they have secured 
situations, the good Sisters encourage them to return 
frequently for advice and parental sympathy. The 
House of Mercy also offers a home to grown girls 
while out of work, which privilege is greatly ap¬ 
preciated by such of them as are convalescent or in 
need of a rest. At first these were not required to pay 


42 


THE HOUSE OF MERCY. 


43 


for their board, but a foolish spirit of pride springing 
up, the Sisters soon found that many girls refused to 
accept the free hospitality of the House of Mercy. The 
girls had always been expected to help with the house¬ 
work, so the good Religious were astonished to hear 
of this objection. But after a consideration of the 
great risks young girls run by boarding among 
strangers, the Sisters concluded to charge a small rate 
of board to those who could pay. Better accommo¬ 
dations were provided, with light and steam-heat, 
each inmate being apportioned a single iron bed, table, 
and chair. Private rooms were also fitted up, and 
separate dining-rooms. Every year this department 
of the Sisters of Mercy’s work becomes more popular, 
hundreds of girls taking advantage of its homelike 
protection. How truly the old adage “Prevention is 
better than cure” applies to this institution! The good 
working-girls with all their faults would die rather 
than sin; yet where, if not to the Sisters, would those 
that are homeless, look for shelter? It is a fact that 
the fallen have more friends than the innocent; the 
outcast seems to appeal to the charity of the world at 
large more than does the unprotected working-girl. 
And still it is appallingly true that the latter- is equally 
exposed to the wiles of sin! Hence the preventive 
charity of the Sisters of Mercy guards those who, as 
the Scripture says, “could have transgressed and have 
not transgressed; and could have done evil things, and 
have not done them.” 


44 


THE HOUSE OF MERCY. 


In connection with this young girls’ home the Sis¬ 
ters conduct ,an employment office, which extends its 
privileges to deserving girls without as well as to those 
within the house. 

A third department is an Industrial School for little 
girls whose parents, for one reason or another, are 
unable to care for them. Orphan asylums do not ad¬ 
mit children who have one or both parents living, and 
thus many would be dangerously forlorn except for 
the motherly attention of the noble Sisters of Mercy. 
Not only are these children fed and clothed here, but 
they are also trained in every branch of domestic work, 
and if not claimed by their parents when grown, are 
placed in carefully-selected situations. 

These little girls have their own dormitory and 
baths, a large modern school-room and a cheery 
dining-room. The youngest children have their studies 
in the morning, the others in the afternoon. In addition 
to the “three Rs,” letter-writing, and plain sewing are 
taught both classes. After supper each evening all 
assemble for Catechism and the recitation of the 
Rosary. 

For many years Mrs. R. C. Kerens has supplied 
shoes for these children. Mrg. Huntington Smith, 
until her death, was faithful to her old custom of send¬ 
ing a Christmas tree, accompanied by gifts of clothing, 
as well as a large supply of candies and toys, to these 
poor little girls. 

Mrs. A. B. Thatcher and her daughter. Miss Violet, 


THE HOUSE OF MERCY. 


45 


both known to possess in most marked degree the 
generosity of their Mnllaupby ancestors, frequently 
present comfortable little dresses to the inmates of the 
Industrial School. The late Miss Mary Chassaing 
gave the greater part of her leisure to sewing for this 
department, and the late Mrs. Firth with her daughters. 
Mrs. Robinson and Miss Minnie, were indefatigable 
patrons. Firm and kind characters are developed in 
this Industrial School, the atmosphere of which is 
never spoiled by the admission of a child of vicious 
inclination. Should such a one accidentally evade the 
primal examination, she is dismissed immediately upon 
discovery. While for the greater part these children 
are dependent upon the Sisters, some receive clothing 
from parents. 


CHAPTER V. 


parocUtal g>c^ool£(. 

** They that instruct othevs unto Justice^) shall shine as stans 
for ah Ete)-nity.” 

In the month of August, 1856, the Sisters opened 
a free parish school, and a very large attendance w^as 
the immediate result. The branches usually taught in 
parochial schools were supplemented by lessons in 
plain and fancy needlework. 

A Sunday-school for negro women and girls was 
also conducted at this period. Missouri being then a 
slave State, the consent of master or mistress had to 
be obtained before a slave could attend, and the poor 
creatures showed a genuine appreciation of this 
privilege. One young girl, at the end of the year, was 
delighted that she now could read her prayer-book; 
and an old woman complained bitterly because her 
mistress would not permit evening light in the house 
on account of the mosquitoes, and hence the ambitious 
creature could not study after work. 

After the Sisters removed to Twenty-second and 
Morgan streets, of which mention will be made later 
on, they continued the parish school, which constantly 
became more successful. About this time the Sisters 
were asked to take charge of a parish school at Kirk¬ 
wood, Missouri, then considered far away, and those 
who assumed the new responsibility were very sad at 
46 


PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS. 


47 


parting from the city Community. When they had 
taught in this school for a year, the pastor, Father 
Bonacum (now Bishop of Lincoln, Nebraska), went 
to Europe; and the succeeding pastor decided to sus¬ 
pend the school until after a certain church debt was 
paid. Father Bonacum, upon his return and appoint¬ 
ment to another parish, again extended a cordial in¬ 
vitation to the Sisters of Mercy to teach in his school. 
But circumstances having conspired to give occupation 
to all the Sisters, they were regretfully compelled to 
refuse the request of their good friend. In 1879 the 
Sisters were offered St. Cronan’s parish school, which 
they accepted, and conducted with marked success for 
three years, when the ‘‘charity which begins, at home” 
called them back to attend the new St. John’s Hospital. 
This, and their arduous and increasing work among 
the poor, has since prevented the Sisters from teaching 
in parish schools. 

A few years ago, however, two Sisters took tem¬ 
porary charge of the Italian school connected with the 
church of Our Lady Help of Christians at Nineteenth 
and Morgan streets, because Father Spigardi was but 
commencing his arduous duty of forming a new parish. 
The Sisters so emulated his devotion that after a few 
months they had prepared over a hundred children for 
first communion and Confirmation. 

This Sunday-school work was continued by the Sis¬ 
ters until the removal of the congregation to the church 
of St. Charles Borromeo, on Locust and Thirtieth streets. 


CHAPTER VI. 


SDifRcultics; — JieU3 iTounUer 

introuiiccs; jfncni30* — (Il;arl^ llBcnefactor^* 

Let us pause for a moment in the narration of so 
many wonderful deeds of mercy and consider the 
“other side of the tapestry,” as it were; consider the 
trials and privations that so frequently dimmed the 
eyes and chilled the hearts of these devout laborers in 
the work of God. 

Perhaps some of the readers can recall the winter of 
1857? It was unusually severe, and as the Sisters, 
when leaving New York, had' prepared for a removal 
to “the South,” they were cruelly surprised by the 
intense cold. Warm clothing and bed covering were 
very scarce and money equally so; hence Reverend 
Mother often had to lay her distress of mind before 
St. Joseph, reminding him that the last dollar had 
been spent for daily bread. Moreover, Father Damen, 
the faithful friend of the Community, was now re¬ 
moved to Chicago, thus depriving the Sisters of the 
most needed counsel and sympathy. For, at this 
juncture, the patrons were holding aloof, many sub¬ 
scribers refusing to pay the assessment for which ar¬ 
rangement had been made with Father Damen. Be- 
48 


DIFFICULTIES. 


49 


sides, the most economical living had accumulated 
debts. 

The Mother Superior of the New York house had 
retained her parental interest in the Western founda¬ 
tion, and to relieve their unavoidable perplexities she 
wrote to Reverend Mother in St. Louis as follows: 

“Do not undertake more work than you are reason¬ 
ably able to perform. If you do not succeed return 
to us.” 

Now Reverend Mother only desired to know the 
will of God; meanwhile the Community would pray, 
work, and wait! 

The Sisters took in sewing and laundry work at 
this time, and often morning dawned to find a Sister 
still laboring in the laundry to have a certain order on 
time. And we may be sure that every effort was a 
prayer to discern the will of God! 

Their devoted Father Damen not only had estab¬ 
lished them in a convent, but had given them two other 
houses for income. Their tenants, however, were 
poor, and would frequently move away owing several 
months’ rent. In her extremity now Reverend Mother 
wrote to Archbishop Kenrick, requesting an interview. 
His Grace responded by calling at the convent. 

It is well-known what a gifted listener was the great 
Archbishop! There he sat, thoughtful, attentive, self- 
possessed, while Reverend Mother enumerated the 
difficulties of the little colony. She ended with these 
words: “Your Grace, we desire only to know God’s 


DIFFICULTIES. 


50 

Yvill — whether to return to New York or to struggle 
on here.” 

Then, in a gentle, earnest tone came the Archbishop’s 
reply: “God is only trying you. You must not think 
of leaving St. Louis where there is so much good to 
be done. When I go home I will send you one hun¬ 
dred dollars, and if your creditors are dunning you, 
give them an order on me. During the coming year 
I will see what can be done.” 

In the calm assurance of the shepherd’s voice the 
little flock recognized the will of God, and after events 
confirmed the inspiration of his advice. Exhorted to 
greater confidence in God the Sisters took comfort, 
and a new determination to brave all difficulties, both 
in the way of their Holy Rule and the progress of their 
merciful works. Archbishop Kenrick remained their 
faithful friend and father until his death. May he rest 
in peace! 

Shortly after the arrival of the Sisters in St. Louis, 
Rev. Father Damen had introduced Dr. Timothy Pa¬ 
pin as physician to the Institution (free of charge) 
and Mr. Alex J. P. Garesche as lawyer. Mr. Gar- 
esche at once took steps to have the Institution 
chartered (with accompanying privileges and im¬ 
munities) under the title of “St. Joseph’s Convent of 
Mercy in St. Louis, Mo., for the education and pro¬ 
tection of poor children and young girls of good 
character.” 

Until his death Mr. Garesche continued to be the 


DIFFICULTIES. 


51 


trusted counsel and faithful defender of the Insti¬ 
tution, so loyal that the Superiors acted upon his 
counsels without any misgiving and learned to bear in 
mind his favorite saying, “In order to avoid trouble 
we must always prepare for it.” May he rest in 
peace! 

Among the early benefactors of the Institution was 
Mrs. Sarpy Berthold Peugnet, who remains to this 
day the devoted friend of the Community. Previous 
to the arrival of the Sisters in St. Louis, she had fur¬ 
nished a part of the convent on Morgan and Tenth 
streets; and when the Sisters opened St. John’s Hos¬ 
pital, she endowed a bed in memory of her daughter. 
Miss Julia Berthold. In 18— Mrs. Peugnet presented 
a life-size statue of St. Anthony in memory of another 
deceased daughter. Miss Virginia Sarpy Berthold, to 
the shrine in the convent chapel, which, by the per¬ 
mission of the late Archbishop Kain, was erected and 
affiliated to that of St. Anthony in Padua. Later, 
when the Hospital was removed to Locust street, Mrs. 
Peugnet completely furnished one of the handsomest 
rooms, bringing also a large basket of silver plate, 
bolts of sheeting, toweling, etc., remarking to Reverend 
Mother, “As you intend to serve the elite at St. John’s, 
you will need nice things.” Mrs. Peugnet is also a 
constant benefactress of the “Female Night Refuge,” 
the name of which she prevailed upon the Sisters to 
change to “Night Hospitality for Women;” as she 
feared the former title was painful to the poor. 


52 


DIFFICULTIES. 


Mrs. Julia Maffitt became a friend of the Sisters of 
Mercy very early in their St. Louis life; and with the 
characteristic charity of her family continued to assist 
them generously until her death. Her Christmas 
donation was as unfailing as the feast itself. In her 
younger days she would bring this gift personally. 
Her bright, cheery greeting: “How are you getting 
along, Sisters? You do not know how glad I am to 
have you here, to love God for us people of the world, 
was always encouraging. “Tell me,” she would say, 
“all about your works of mercy! How many in the 
Industrial School? I fear you have great difficulty in 
providing for so many without a regular income 1 
And whenever there was a new work on hand Mrs. 
Maffitt would write, “I will double my donation this 
year because you are at so much expense. Never mind 
thanks; only pray for me and mine.” 

In later years when the “servant question” became 
a source of annoyance to many families, the Sisters 
were blamed for giving a home to domestics. The 
good Religious wrote an explanation of their side to 
Mrs. Maffitt, and like the Catholic and cultured lady 
that she was she answered, “Dear Sisters, you are 
bound to the service of too high a Master — I dare 
not blame you! Do all that your Rule commands for 
those poor working-girls, and count on me for help. 
I will call in a few days. Pray for me and mine, etc.” 

In her will she endowed a bed for the Night Hospi¬ 
tality. May she rest in peace! 


DIFFICULTIES. 


53 


Mrs. Julia Maffitt’s love for the Sisters of Mercy 
and their charities descended to her children. The 
names of Mrs. Charles Bates, Mrs. Edward Walsh, 
Miss Emilie Maffitt, and the Messrs. William C., 
Charles C., and Chouteau Maffitt being recorded often 
in the lists of donations to the convent of Mercy. 

Mrs. Charles P. Chouteau was another of the early 
friends of the Sisters, aiding them in many ways. 
When calling at the convent she would ask with a 
smile, “Any work of charity for me to-day. Sister?” 
On one occasion she was told of an old lady whom the 
sisters visited. The death of her only son had left 
her in destitute circumstances. Her only daughter 
was a nun in a cloistered Order a great distance away, 
and she was in imminent danger of having to abandon 
her vocation and return to care for her mother. Mrs. 
Chouteau upon hearing the story remarked, with 
characteristic sweetness: “If the young lady, after 
taking advice of her superiors thinks that she has a 
true vocation, tell her not to leave the convent. I will 
look after her mother.” 

Mrs. Chouteau had the patient removed to com¬ 
fortable quarters, where she visited her frequently; 
sometimes performing with her own hands those little 
offices, which, though small in themselves, give evi¬ 
dence of a generous heart. 

The old lady lingered for two years, Mrs. Chouteau 
continuing to bestow on her the devotion of a daugh¬ 
ter. She employed a nurse to attend her until her 


DIFFICULTIES. 


54 

death, and then bore the expenses of a decent Catholic 
funeral for the forlorn old lady. When all was over 
Mrs. Chouteau wrote the particulars to the Sisters of 
Mercy, and begged in return for their prayers. 

Like Mrs. Maffitt, Mrs. Chouteau imbued her chil¬ 
dren with a love for the works of mercy; and the 
names of Mrs. D. D. Johnson and Mrs. Edward Papin 
in the lists of donors prove their fidelity to her ex¬ 
ample and precept. 

Other benefactors are: Miss Mary Boyce, Miss 
Lillie Graham, Mrs. Anna Lucas Hunt, Mrs. Isabel 
Stittimus, Mrs. G. Doan, Miss Mary Reyburn, Mrs. 
Benoist Fallen, Mrs. Lillie Frost, Mrs. Hudson, Mrs. 
Winifred Patterson, Mrs. Jane Chambers, and Mrs. 
A. B. Thatcher. Also: Messrs. James Lucas, John 
Withnell, W. Sarpy, and Dr. Reyburn. 


CHAPTER VIL 


tEl)e ^i6tcr0 remote front Morgan ano tE^cntlj ^trecto 
to ^porgan ano ^inent^^^econtj Streets* 

The Sisters had so extended the sphere of their 
good works that, by i860, the house on Morgan and 
Tenth streets was found to be too small. But search 
as they would in St. Xavier’s parish they could not 
find a suitable building. Finally, putting all their con¬ 
fidence in dear St. Joseph, the patron of the Insti¬ 
tution, the Religious commenced a novena prepar¬ 
atory to his feast-day, to obtain light on this new 
problem. Several Masses were said for the same in¬ 
tention, and the good saint was evidently impressed 
with their fervor and the real needs of the case. For 
hardly had his day, the 19th of March, rolled by, when 
Archbishop Kenrick called at the convent most un¬ 
expectedly and made a proposition which corresponded 
exactly with the hopes of Reverend Mother. He 
offered to donate a lot 88 x 100 feet on Morgan and 
Twenty-second streets, purchasing from the Sisters a 
portion of their property, and also a piece of real estate 
which had been bequeathed to them by Miss Jane 
Graham. 

This generous offer enabled them to build the 
55 


56 


THE SISTERS REMOVE. 


present convent, with ample wings for the Young 
Girls’ Home and the Industrial School. 

Archbishop Kenrick appointed a chaplain from the 
parish church; but the Sisters, finding it hard to pay 
his stipend, appealed to the Jesuits for the donation of 
their services. This request was granted at once, al¬ 
though a considerable distance intervened between the 
college and the convent. The Jesuit Fathers also gave 
a series of lectures in the Mercantile Library, for the 
benefit of the works of the Sisters of Mercy. 

Through fifty years they have continued the loyal 
friends of the Community, giving the annual retreats 
and coming in times of trial to give, not only prudent 
counsel to the Sisters, but that best and highest gift, 
comprehensive sympathy. 

Finding no parochial school in the new district, the 
Sisters opened one for little girls in the basement of 
the new convent. But as both the Community and the 
school increased, an addition to the building was 
made. In this the school progressed for five years, 
during the last of which six hundred children were in 
attendance. Though a fee for tuition was specified, 
no child who was unable to pay was refused admission, 
and many were even fed and clothed by the kind Sis¬ 
ters. 

Circumstances, however, arose which required the 
erection of a parish school nearer the church, and 
Reverend Mother, acting under the advice of Arch¬ 
bishop Kenrick and her counsel changed the school 



ST. JOSEPH S CONVENT OF MERCY — MORGAN & 22ND STS. 
















THE SISTERS REMOVE. 


57 


building into an infirmary. Women and children only 
were to be accommodated, but under the skilled and 
gentle management of the Sisters the reputation of 
the infirmary soon got abroad, and almost as if by 
magic a regular hospital was established, extending 
privileges to men as well as women. We will come 
to accounts of this hospital in the following chapter. 


CHAPTER VIIL 


l;o6pitaU 

Under the protection of St. John of God, an in¬ 
firmary for poor women and children was opened on 
March i, 1871. 

Several poor men applied for admission, and on 
their being referred to the Alexian Brothers (whose 
Institution is exclusively for men) they protested, say¬ 
ing: “Sure, Sister, we are tired of men-nurses; we 
would rather be with the Sisters. Mercy should be 
shown to men as well as to women!” The self-evident 
truth in the last remark caused the Sisters to consider 
the advisability of admitting them. Several of the 
clergy also pleaded the cause of the poor men, and 
finally the general hospital was established. The great 
results in the way of conversion and repentance that 
have every year been recorded, attest the pleasure of 
God in this particular work. “For Paul may plant, 
and Apollo water, but it is God that giveth the in¬ 
crease.” 

This hospital was conducted without distinction of 
creed or nationality, and on the broadest plans of 
charity, despite the large debt upon it. 

58 


ST. John's hospital. 


59 


To help to furnish the wards the Sisters, unknown 
to Reverend Mother, gave their bedsteads and mat¬ 
tresses. One day, as Reverend Mother was going 
through the convent she was surprised to see a bed 
made upon the floor of one of the cells, but supposing 
that the bedstead had been sent out for repairs she 
made no comment. A few days later she saw three or 
four beds upon the floor, and then she spoke to the 
Sister in charge about the imprudence of having so 
much repairing done at one time. Of course the truth 
became known that every Sister in the convent, except 
the very delicate Mistress of Novices, had relinquished 
her bedstead, mattress, pillows, and whatever bed 
covering she could spare! Upon hearing this the 
Superior insisted upon giving up hers as well; but the 
Sisters would not agree to this: a compromise being 
effected, by accepting one of her pillows for the ward. 

Many amusing incidents have been related by the 
Sisters in connection with their work in the hospital. 

At first the non-Catholic patients could not under¬ 
stand why the Sisters had given up the freedom of the 
world to devote their lives to the care of suffering 
humanity. Sister was one day engaged in feeding a 
patient (an Eastern man) who was very curious to 
know what State she came from. The Sisters never 
divulge their family name or place of birth except 
when necessary, and so Sister gave evasive replies to 
his roundabout inquiries. Finally he drawled out: 
“Sister, in what State were you born? Or, if I am ask- 


6 o 


ST. John's hospital. 


ing too much, at least tell me on the borders of what 
States have you lived?” 

“Well,” she replied, “I was born in the state of 
original sin, and have lived ever since on the borders 
of nature and grace.” 

The old man did not understand this answer, and 
there was a great laugh at his expense from the Irish 
patients in the ward. 

Once a patient who had been sick at home for a 
long time came to the ward. He confided to another 
sufferer, that his reason for coming to the hospital 
was to escape the entreaties of his mother, who was 
constantly urging him to go to confession. “So I 
came here,” he concluded, “where I can rest in peace.” 
“Faith, then,” replied his companion, “youTe in the 
wrong box this time, for it is a rule of the house that 
no Catholic leaves it without having gone to con¬ 
fession.” And before returning home the new-comer 
received the Sacraments. 

One morning early in March a patient was received 
who had been imbibing a little too freely, and wanted 
to “sober up” as the process is termed. It happened 
that the Sister in charge of his hall was assigned to 
duty in another house for a few days. But before 
leaving she warned the Sister who was replacing her 
to closely watch Mr. C. on St. Patrick’s day, as she 
felt sure he would make a desperate effort to join in 
the celebration. The second Sister, on the morning 
in question, bearing in mind the warning, removed 


ST. John's hospital. 


6 i 


Mr. C.'s hat, coat, and shoes from his room, and 
locked the door. Then, with the consciousness of a 
duty well performed she went about other tasks. By- 
and-by, when the parade was passing the hospital, one 
of the nurses called Sister to the window and pointed 
toward the street. Could she believe her eyes! There 
in the foremost rank without coat, hat, or shoes, 
walked Mr. C.! How he got there has ever remained 
a mystery. When the first Sister returned to the hall, 
she was greatly amused at the story, and, afterwards, 
would declare that it took Sister — to turn out a cadet 
worthy of St. John’s Hospital. 

The history of any great enterprise is replete with 
interest, especially when the work in question has been 
planned and pursued with undeviating fidelity for a 
great number of years. 

The “New St. John’s” is the outcome of twenty 
years of hard work and concentrated devotion; not 
only on the part of the Community, but also on that 
of the splendid medical and surgical faculty attending 
it. The “New St. John’s” was opened August 15, 
1890, in the “Barney” mansion, on Locust and 
Twenty-third streets. One wing after another has 
been added, until the present fine structure, with a 
frontage of one hundred and five feet, and a depth of 
one hundred and fifty feet, exhibits a superb result of 
modern skill and invention. In every detail it is com¬ 
plete for its specific purposes, combining all the com¬ 
fort and attractions to be found in the highest grade 


62 


ST. John's hospital. 


of hospitals. Each private room is fitted up in as 
home-like a manner as possible, and a safety elevator 
makes all floors easy of access. The growth of the 
hospital necessitated the establishment of a clinical 
dispensary for outside patients. This consists of a 
number of departments: Medical, Surgical, Eye, Ear, 
Nose, Throat, and many others. 

The clinic rooms are fully equipped with modern 
appliances, and are in charge of the most eminent 
physicians and surgeons. Dr. T. A. Temm supervises 
the prescription department, which is attended by the 
Sisters. 

St. John’s Hospital is not for the treatment of con¬ 
tagious diseases, nor for the insane or incurable, but 
it is a place of rest for the sick who hope for restora¬ 
tion to health. It is open day and night throughout the 
year. Being situated upon high ground, fitted with 
modern improvements, and not far from the great 
Union Station, it is becoming wonderfully popular, 
both with suburban and city residents. 

In 1903 the Jesuit Eathers, having purchased the 
Marion-Simms Medical College, applied to the Mother 
Superior for the privilege of having their physicians 
attend St. John’s Hospital. Here was a trying ordeal 
for the Community! 

The doctors of the Missouri Medical College had 
been identified with St. John’s from the beginning, and 
their devotedness had been gratefully appreciated by 
the Community. Never had a break occurred in these 


ST. JOHN^S HOSPITAL. 


63 


relations; the code of etiquette, which existed from 
the first, had never been transgressed. The faculty 
was composed of distinguished doctors — all true 
gentlemen. The following letter, written by the late 
Dr. T. F. Prewitt, designates the attitude of each 
member of the Missouri Medical College toward the 
Sisters of Mercy. 

“Jan. 3, 1903. 

“To THE Sisters of Mercy: 

“The little token of kindly remembrance 
“The little token of kindly remembrance 
you extend for the New Year are reciprocated most 
heartily. My long association with the Sisters of 
Mercy of St. John’s Hospital has left many cherished 
memories, which will be obliterated only with life. 

“May the coming year bring you all the happiness 
your unselfish devotion to the welfare of others merits. 

“Sincerely, 

“T. F. Prewitt.” 

Now the Sisters had to consider a complete sepa¬ 
ration from these co-workers of many years’ standing! 
But had the Jesuit Fathers a lesser claim to any priv¬ 
ileges which the Community might have power to 
grant? Who had founded the convent of Mercy in 
St. Louis? It was the Jesuit Order, in their devoted 
son, Father Damen. They also had been the most 
steadfast and obliging friends. Unselfishly, disinter¬ 
estedly, for years they had given their spiritual ser- 


64 


ST. John’s hospital. 


vices to the Institution. And yet this was the first 
favor they had ever asked in return! 

Reverend Mother hesitated long, advised with her. 
Community, and prayed fervently. Finally, on 
receiving an earnest petition on the subject from the 
Archbishop of St. Louis, she made the radical change: 
separated from the old and hopefully accepted the new 
faculty. 

The following is a copy of the letter received from 
the late Archbishop Kain expressive of his views re¬ 
garding the introduction of the St. Louis University s 
faculty to St. John’s Hospital. 

“3810 Lindell Ave., March 7, 1903. 
“Mother Mary de Pazzi : 

“Dear Mother: 

“More than two years ago, when 
Father Rogers came to me to know my wishes with 
regard to the establishment of a medical department 
by the St. Louis University, I not only expressed my 
hearty approval of their plans, but I readily offered to 
do what I could in assisting them to get the cordial 
support of the Catholic hospitals. 

“You are already aware of my mind in this matter, 
but by putting my views in writing they may be made 
clearer. 

“All of us desire to see flourishing schools of higher 
learning under Catholic management. The lack of 
these has been a reproach to us in the past. If such 
schools are necessary in other lines, especially are they 



ST. JOHN S HOSPITAL, LOCUST & 23RD STS 








« •» 










r 











» 


« 







ST. JOHN^S HOSPITAL. 


65 


necessary in medicine — from a religious point of view 
and from a moral point of view; from the standpoint 
of the doctor and of the patient. 

“The clergy not only of St. Louis and of this diocese, 
but the priests of this whole section, are interested 
with me in the matter, as well as many influential 
men and women who are working for the project. 
The St. Louis University is spending many 
thousands of dollars, and expects no pecuniary ad¬ 
vantage from this enterprise. Now that it is an 
assured fact, we should all lend it our support, as it 
is for the common good of the Church in this section. 

“We all know that a medical school can not be 
successful without ample hospital or clinical facilities. 
It would seem therefore altogether natural that the 
Catholic hospitals should grant their clinical facilities 
for a Catholic medical college, rather than to any 
other. 

“Tlie St. Louis University Medical Department will 
certainly do all in its power to meet the requirements 
of the Catholic hospitals whose cooperation it seeks. 
I do not doubt that you are quite willing to do what¬ 
ever you can for the Catholic University — that both 
naturally and supernaturally you would prefer it. 

“There seems to be one obstacle, and but one that 
can prevent these two important interests (the Catho¬ 
lic hospital and the Catholic medical college) from 
coming to terms — namely, the doctors now connected 
with the hospitals. 


66 


ST. John's hospital. 


“While the hospitals owe these doctors a debt of 
gratitude and doubtless a great one, the doctors owe 
just as much to the hospitals. We all know that it is 
the hospitals that make the doctors and not vice versa. 
The doctors would seem to be unreasonable, then, 
should they endeavor to prevent or to stand in the 
way of what is so desired and desirable. I am sure 
the St. Louis University Medical Department will be 
willing to care for them ^nd it will do them full 
justice. It will be a flourishing institution with the 
accession of the principal Catholic hospitals; it will be 
stronger than it is possible for any medical college in 
St. Louis to be to-day. From this flourishing con¬ 
dition will result increased benefits to these same doc¬ 
tors, to the hospitals, and to the medical college. 

“The interests of God and His Church are par¬ 
amount, and higher Catholic education belongs to the 
interests of God and His Church. It is a matter of 
principle. 

“Let us all work together. Anything else seems 
singular to me, as I am sure it will to you, on reflec¬ 
tion, and it certainly will seem strange to our people. 
The case seems clear. I hope you will be able to co¬ 
operate in this work, which promises so much good 
for God and our fellow-men. 

“Commending myself to your prayers, I remain, 
“Yours devotedly in Christ, 

“John J. Kain, Ahp., St. Louis.” 


ST. John's hospital. 


67 


The Sisters were relieved to have reached a de¬ 
cision, much as they regretted having been called upon 
to effect such a revolution in all the departments of 
the hospital. But the Jesuits were more than relieved, 
they were genuinely delighted, and have never 
slackened, since, in their attention to the patients of 
St. John’s Hospital. 

Regarding Reverend Mother’s long deliberation, on 
receiving an affirmative answer, Rev. W. B. Rogers, 
S.J., President of the St. Louis University, wrote as 
follows: 

'‘Rev. Mother Mary M. de Pazzi. 

Rev. Dear Mother: 

“You do not know how much pleasure 
and relief your letter just now received has brought 
me. 

“Those who have come from Protestantism into 
the Church all aver that they seemed to be plunging 
as it were into the dark, but that once decided a peace 
and calm unspeakable came upon them. You have 
made the plunge. I hope Almighty God will give you 
all the peace and calm. I do not doubt that He will 
prosper you even financially — at least we will strive 
to that end. 

“I shall communicate your decision to our good 
Archbishop, who, I am sure, will be much pleased at 
the announcement. 

“We shall not forget the Sisters or their Mother in 
our prayers and at Mass. 


68 ST. John's hospital. 

“With gratitude to yourself, I remain, 

“Yours in Our Lord, 

W. B. Rogers. S.J.” 

After the usual formalities had been observed, a 
date being set, the faculty of the Missouri Medical 
College (with the exception of a few members) with¬ 
drew. The following is a letter from Dr. Todd (in 
charge of the Clinic for Diseases of Nose and Throat) 
bearing upon this crisis. 

“Rev. Mother de Pazzi of the Sisters of 
Mercy, St. John's Hospital. 

“Respected Madam : 

“I am in receipt of a note from the 
Sisters of Mercy, informing me of the change in the 
University association, at the same time kindly in¬ 
viting me to continue in charge of the clinic with 
which I have been so long connected — and which, I 
may be permitted to add, has been always made a most 
agreeable service to me by the Sisters of Mercy. From 
what I learn, the Marion-Simms Medical College will 
practically have charge of the Medical Department of 
the St. Louis University. That will make it absolutely 
impossible for me to continue in the service of the 
hospital, much as I regret to break a connection dig¬ 
nified by a quarter of a century of most honorable and 
friendly association. In order that none of the patients 
may suffer, I will attend the clinic as usual, if it is 
wished, until a new appointment is made, which I 
presume can be made in a day or two. 


ST. John's hospital. 69 

"‘I thank you sincerely for all the kindness of the 
past. Very respectfully, 

Your most obedient 

Chas. a. Todd, M.D.” 

“St. Louis, April i, 1903. 

The faculty of the St. Louis University took 
charge immediately, and have, ever since, shown them 
selves worthy of confidence. The clinics are growing 
steadily in popularity, both among the poor and the 
young doctors. 

Prof. A. V. L. Brokaw is in charge of the surgical 
clinic. Dr. Brokaw, having grown up with the hos¬ 
pital, when there was question of the aforesaid 
change, selected to remain, declaring that he “would 
go to Jericho with St. John’s Hospital!” He per¬ 
formed six hundred and thirty operations during the 
past year. 

The medical clinic is in charge of Dr. Wm. Moore, 
who is termed by the Sisters “their Standby in Emer¬ 
gency,” being so ready and devoted to the patients. 
His courtesy and sympathy make him a great favorite 
with the sick. He had six hundred and twenty cases 
during the past year. 

The women’s clinic is in charge of Dr. T. A. Temm, 
and is one of the largest of its kind in the West. It is 
a source of much gratification to the Sisters to have 
Dr. Temm at the head of this department, he having 
been identified with it for the past fifteen years. He 


ST. John's hospital. 


70 

had one hundred and twelve operations to perform 
last year. 

The eye clinic is in charge of Dr. C. L. Wilson, who 
has given it his personal attention each day for the 
past seventeen years. This clinic is the largest con¬ 
nected with the hospital. Last year one thousand one 
hundred and twenty-eight cases were treated here. 

The orthopedic clinic, under Professor Russell, had 
one hundred and seventy-eight cases last year. The 
clinic for nervous diseases under Professor Chaddock 
had one hundred and fifty patients during the year. 
The ear and throat clinic, in charge of Professor H. 
W. Loeb, treated one thousand cases during the year. 
The Community, the Young Girls’ Home, and the In¬ 
dustrial School are attended by Dr. L. E. Newman, 
who has faithfully and devotedly served them for 
twenty-five years. 


CHAPTER IX. 


i?ountiations: at 0t\xy O^rleans, 
anD iLoui6l)iUe, — SDcDicatiou of tljc 
Cl)apel of llaD^ of SDoloro^ — j^otiitiatet 

lA ' — i ii. ■ ,£•■■ y Lv- I --- .tJ tk 

In the year 1869 the convent of Mercy in St. Louis 
sent out two foundations. One went in March to 
New Orleans, consisting of six Sisters with Sister 
Mary Catharine Grant as Superior; the other left in 
October for Louisville, consisting likewise of six Sis¬ 
ters, Sister Mary Ignatius being Superior. 

Unlike the foundations made later on at Springfield, 
Mo., and Eureka Springs, Ark., the convents in Ken¬ 
tucky and Louisiana are independent, having no con¬ 
nection whatever with the Mother-house in St. Louis. 

In 1877 our Sisters of Mercy had the happiness of 
having their new chapel completed and dedicated to 
the service of God under the title of Our Lady of Do¬ 
lors, to whom in darkest hours they had confidingly 
gone for comfort. This chapel, erected in thanksgiv¬ 
ing for many favors obtained through the Blessed 
Mother, is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. 
Being cruciform in shape, the Sister’s choir, separated 
from the sanctuary by a grating, occupies the nave, 
while the two transepts are set apart for the inmates 
of the Institution and visitors. 

71 


72 


FOUNDATIONS AT NEW ORLEANS. 


The delicate though rich adornments of this chapel 
make it a fitting testimonial to the genius and, we may 
justly add, the charity of the architect — the late Mr. 
Daniel Sullivan. This good man, a devoted friend of 
the Community, could pray with the Royal Prophet: 
“Lord, I have loved the beauty of Thy house, the place 
where Thy glory dwelleth,” because he spared neither 
labor nor expense in this holy work. Oftentimes, 
when Reverend Mother felt obliged to warn him of 
the limits set in the contract, he would reply that he 
“could do what he pleased with his own money.” 

The dedication services were conducted by Co¬ 
adjustor-Bishop (now Archbishop) Ryan, and were 
gratefully impressive to the Community which had 
struggled “uphill, all the way.” 

The temporary altar has been replaced, some years 
since, by one of exquisitely carved wood; the natural 
tones being brought out by a high polish and a deli¬ 
cate tracery in gold leaf. Life-size statues of the 
Sacred Heart Pleading, the Blessed Virgin, Saints 
Joseph, Mary Magdalene de Pazzi, Michael, Anthony, 
and Patrick, adorn the spacious sanctuary. Several 
oil-paintings, copied in Rome from great masterpieces, 
also help in bringing heaven nearer to the thoughts of 
the worshipers. The chapel and the Institution are 
now attended by a priest from St. Bridget’s church, the 
Rector of which. Rev. Father Fenlon, is a devoted 
friend of the Sisters of Mercy. 

The Community increasing in numbers, sufficient 


FOUNDATIONS AT NEW ORLEANS. 73 

Space and quietude were not available for the training 
of the novices at the mother-house, and when the Sis¬ 
ters were offered a suitable location in the country 
they at once considered it, and sought the Archbishop’s 
advice in the matter. The following is a copy of the 
letter received from His Grace in response. 

“Reverend Mother: 

“I have no objection to your purchasing the 
farm offered to you, if, all things considered, you 
deem it advisable. My opinion is that farms, to be 
profitable, must be worked by the owner, who other¬ 
wise is in danger of losing money. Hoping that your 
undertaking will be successful. 

“I remain, Rev. Mother, 

“Your obet. servt. in Christ 

“t Peter Richard Kenrick, Ahp ” 

The place was bought, and a thirty-five miles’ 
journey from St. Louis brings one to this novitiate at 
“Josephville” in the La Barque hills, which is, to-day, 
in a very flourishing condition. At first there were 
only a few log-cabins ready for the Sisters, but their 
willing hands rapidly transformed them into chapel 
and convent. On Feb. 2, 1879, the priest from St. 
Patrick’s church, at Catawissa, three miles away, 
came on foot and celebrated the first Mass in the new 
establishment. 

Like all similar works undertaken for the glory of 
God, the early days of “Josephville” were passed amid 


74 


FOUNDATIONS AT NEW ORLEANS. 


struggle and hardship. But, following the example of 
their “Mother,” the Sisters exhibited heroic, if not 
superhuman, courage in overcoming difficulties and 
privations. And to-day behold the result! A hand¬ 
some structure of solid stone, three stories in height, 
and eighty feet in length, is this St. Michael s No¬ 
vitiate out at “Josephville.” The corner-stone was 
laid in 1884 with Archbishop Kenrick’s sanction; but 
it took some years of work and prayer before the 
crown of all, their beautiful stone chapel, was com¬ 
pleted. This was dedicated in 1890, the sermon of the 
day being preached by the eloquent Priest-Editor, 
Rev. Father Phelan, pastor of the church of Our Lady 
of Mount Carmel. Father Phelan has ever been one 
of the staunchest friends of the Sisters of Mercy. 

One of the annual retreats is given, each summer, 
at “Josephville,” and is attended by a number of Sis¬ 
ters from the convent and the hospital in St. Louis. 
These Religious who have spent the year laboring 
amid the smoke and din of the great city gratefully 
appreciate the pleasant change afforded by these days 
at the Novitiate. 


CHAPTER X. 


for ^omen» 

''‘I was a stranger and you took tne in” —Matt. xxv. 35. 

Their two homes, one for working-girls, the other 
for little ones, did not fully satisfy the deep feelings of 
the Sisters to afford protection to needy women. There 
was another class which strongly, though silently, ap¬ 
pealed to these* valiant-hearted daughters of Catharine 
McAuley. 

Hence, in 1876, a new department, a place of lodg¬ 
ing for impoverished mothers and working-women, 
was established. Here poor or hunted creatures are 
given a bed and a meal, if needed, without cost. They 
are expected to go out to work during the day, and 
as no one under the influence of liquor is admitted, a 
perfect decorum is always observed. 

Often the Sister in charge of the employment office 
has reason to bless God for the shelter afforded by the 
Night Refuge to some poor girl, who, likewise, is fit 
for a good situation just at hand. Then again, girls 
out of work can enjoy this kindly hospitality of the 
Sisters during the time of waiting for a suitable place. 

On one occasion a most pitiful case was brought to 
the Sisters’ attention. A poor woman, a complete 
stranger in St. Louis, had arrived at the Union Station, 
75 


76 


NIGHT HOSPITALITY FOR WOMEN. 


full of hope, to earn a livelihood in the great city. 
Yet even as she pressed through the throng of travelers, 
she was robbed of a purse containing her all — the 
sum of thirty-two dollars. In her consternation she 
made great appeals for guidance, and was given the 
address of the Sisters of Mercy. She reached the 
employment office and tearfully told her story. No 
position suitable for her being at that moment on the 
books, she was offered the hospitality’s home-shelter. 
Her trunk was sent for by the Sisters, and after a day 
or so, she got employment. Her gratitude was last¬ 
ing; and when, some time later, she was on the point 
of returning to her old home, she visited the convent 
to thank each Sister who had done her a favor. 

Sometimes it is a wife, the victim of a drunken hus¬ 
band’s cruelty that finds protection in the Night Re¬ 
fuge. Once a woman, with two little children clinging 
to her skirts and a third in arms, begged for shelter 
until the morrow. Her husband called next morning 
to ask if a woman with three children had been ad¬ 
mitted the night before. 

Oh, yes, he remembered very well the fact of put¬ 
ting them out, but said, by way of excuse, that “he 
had taken a drop too much.” Then the abused wife 
forgave him, saying that “he is the best man in the 
world when sober!” and returned home with him. 

What a home she finds! The little cup-board is 
thrown down, every piece of china broken; the stove, 
turned upside down, is posted for duty in the back- 


NIGHT HOSPITALITY FOR WOMEN. 


77 


yard, and the beautiful quilt, all red and white stars, 
her own handiwork, which had looked so clean and 
bright on the bed; she finds it where ? Stuffed into the 
stovepipe out in the yard! The poor creature hardly 
knew where to begin her straightening-up; and yet 
“he is the best man in the world, drunk or sober!” 

Another incident of a different nature may be read 
from the records of the Night Hospitality. Far down 
the long row of beds, a woman lies dying! Her white 
hair and wrinkled face tell of many years’ struggle. 
Beside her kneels a Sister, prayerfully assisting the 
forlorn soul. On a small, white-covered table two 
candles are burning, and a second Sister is preparing 
the dormitory for the visit of the chaplain. The aged 
woman, seeming weak and tired, had been admitted 
only the night before; registering simply as “Marga¬ 
ret.” The next morning Sister, noticing a great 
change in her condition, had sent for priest and 
physician. In the interval, the patient, in a weak voice 
related the story of her life to the Sister. 

Born in Ireland, married early, she was happy with 
her James and two boys when, suddenly, the man dis¬ 
appeared. Having been in a fist-fight with a neighbor, 
and knocking him senseless, he feared he had killed 
his opponent. To escape the law he had taken passage 
for America. The injured man recovered, however, 
and the police abandoned the search for James. Poor 
Margaret waited long, but in vain, for the return of 
her husband. Fresh troubles came, but the climax of 


NIGHT HOSPITALITY FOR WOMEN. 


78 

all was reached when the malignant fever carried off 
her two bright boys! 

And now, she left home and kindred and went out 
to seek her husband. The only news of him, that of 
his safe arrival, had come from New York; so to New 
York went Margaret to begin one of the most pathetic 
and extraordinary searches ever pursued. Always 
working, but always scrutinizing the faces of the 
working-men as she passed through the streets of 
New York and Philadelphia. To New Orleans, to 
Texas, to California, went the woman, and still no 
trace of James. Once the mistress of a house told 
Margaret that she was “better off without such a man. 
Besides he had probably married again.” 

Margaret answered indignantly; “James might 
fight and drink, but he was Catholic to the heart’s 
core, and would never think of another wife while I 
lived.” With these words she packed her valise, and 
went to St. Louis. 

Here, she obtained a situation with the late Mrs. 
Charles Chouteau, who said when engaging her, 
“Margaret, though it is contrary to my custom to 
employ a woman without city references, I like your 
face and will give you a trial.” 

Margaret’s respectful manners, neat appearance, and 
sad white face, did not belie the trust placed in her. 
One day Mrs. Chouteau, who was a singularly ap¬ 
preciative and encouraging mistress, commended her 
care in the laundry work. 


NIGHT HOSPITALITY FOR WOMEN. 


79 


“I would like you to remain permanently/’ said 
Mrs. Chouteau, “but there is a restlessness in your 
eyes. What is the cause — may I ask ?” 

“You may indeed, ma’am,” answered Margaret; 
and thereupon related her lifelong trouble and wander¬ 
ings. 

The kind lady, who never turned from the poor, ex¬ 
pressed her sympathy and told her that if ever she 
needed a friend she should come to her. Margaret 
never seemed to have need of earthly friends; her 
wants were few, and she always had work. 

After leaving Mrs. Chouteau’s, Margaret obtained 
a situation in the old City Hospital. There she was 
well liked and for a time seemed contented. As of old 
she closely scanned the face of every newcomer. One 
day she noticed the doctors bringing in a white-haired, 
stoop-shouldered man. He was very weak; and as 
they were assisting him to lie down his face was 
turned toward Margaret. She recognized James! Her 
lifelong search was ended. 

That afternoon two Sisters of Mercy came to visit 
the hospital, and Margaret told them of her discovery. 
The Religious went over and spoke to the patient. It 
certainly was James! In the explanations that fol¬ 
lowed he said he had heard of her coming to America, 
but never could get further trace of her. 

Labor, hardship, and the thousand misunderstand¬ 
ings of a strange country had done their work; and 
James lay dying, like so many of his countrymen, in 


8 o 


NIGHT HOSPITALITY FOR WOMEN. 


exile! Margaret sent for a priest who knew her his¬ 
tory, and he administered the Last Sacraments. 

And now as she herself lay dying, how merciful 
seemed her relation of how she had prepared the body 
for burial, had it brought to church and then finally 
laid in consecrated ground. “In Masses and other 
charities for the repose of his soul went the two hun¬ 
dred dollars poor James had saved! I have remained 
in St. Louis since his death as I want to be buried 
beside him. Put this old rosary in my hands. Sister; 
the Blessed Virgin knows it well. It was my only 
book, my only help, in all those weary years.” 

The chaplain having arrived, now administered the 
Last Sacraments, and before noon the poor soul had 
peacefully passed to God. 

In the habit which she had prepared years before, 
the Sisters robed her, and clasped in the withered 
hands they placed her beloved rosary. Sweet, blessed 
beads, to which, in all those weary years she had told 
every grief, and in the precious decades of which she 
had so often found relief. 

Oh, dear, blessed beads! how many many stories 
you could tell of sorrows to all others unknown; how 
many weary fingers wander round your precious 
chain, how many weary hearts in some Hail Mary 
find repose! You, and under God, you alone are 
trusted, and well you keep your secret! 

Some writer has said that every life, even the most 
uneventful, would furnish an interesting history. And 


NIGHT HOSPITALITY FOR WOMEN. 


8l 


truly many of those seeking shelter in the Night Hos¬ 
pitality could show the world examples of fidelity, 
nobility, and self-sacrifice worthy of our dear Master, 
who when on earth had not whereon to lay His head. 


CHAPTER XL 


translations anO publications^ 

The Sisters of Mercy have been singularly success¬ 
ful in the translation and publication of religious 
books. In 1882 they got out an English version of the 
French “L’Hommes Religieux” (The Religous) by 
Pere St. Jure, S.J. 

This wonderful work, treating in such a practical, 
though exalted way of the virtues particularly belong¬ 
ing to Community life, had been used for Spiritual 
Reading by the Sisters some years before, and, though 
many books of the same character succeeded it, the 
French book was never forgotten. 

Their first idea was to translate it for their own 
Community, but as other Orders of Religious heard of 
this project they joined in approving it, and finally it 
was sent to the publisher for the general public. 

Unfortunately, the manuscript was destroyed by a 
fire in the printing office, and the Sisters not having a 
duplicate copy, were obliged to commence the work 
anew, a task in which they were encouraged by in¬ 
creasing inquiries for the book from Superiors of 
other Communities. Finally, in 1882, the work was 
82 


TRANSLATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS. 83 

presented to the public in its present form — for the 
first time in English dress. 

We may quote from the Editor’s Preface but a few 
lines in reference to “L’Hommes Religieux” in 
English: 

‘^Could we indulge the hope that these instructions 
would stimulate but one tepid soul in religion — that 
they would cause a greater diligence and assiduity in 
the progress of religious perfection — that the true 
Spouse of Christ would be by them more enamored 
of her holy and exalted state — that the holy zvould 
become holier still, we should be more than repaid for 
the labor incurred in the execution of our task.” 

The following is a copy of a letter received from 
the Most Rev. Archbishop Kenrick regarding the 
publication of this work. 

‘‘Rev. Mother: 

“I return to you the manuscript, etc., 
which you have sent to me without having looked into, 
much less examined it. You must not take this as 
wanting in respect to you, or as discouraging you in 
the proposed publication. I have for some time back 
refused to give my approbation to any book, and 
therefore either leave you to the exercise of your own 
judgment in the matter, or, if you wish for advice, 
indirectly suggest that you seek it elsewhere than from 
me. I will add that I am satisfied that you will en¬ 
courage the publication of nothing that, both as to 
matter and form, will not be calculated to promote 


84 TRANSLATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS. 

edification. Wishing you, therefore, success in your 
undertaking, I remain. Rev. Mother, 

“Your obedt. servt. in Christ, 

“Peter Richard Kenrick, Abp . 
“Rev. Mother M. de Pazzi."' 

In 1887 the Sisters published the “Popular Idfe of 
Rev. Mother Catharine McAuley,” and in 1888, “The 
Familiar Instructions of Rev. Mother McAuley.” The 
first named book was exceptionally well received by 
the Catholic public. Perhaps its best eulogium, how¬ 
ever, can be read in the preface to the work, written 
by the late Rev. Father Butler, rector of St. Cronan’s 
Church. 

This “Popular Life” is a reprint of the edition pub¬ 
lished in Ireland in 1863, by one of Mother McAuley’s 
spiritual children. In presenting it to the public the 
Sisters had the twofold aim: first, to extend a knowl¬ 
edge of the works of the Order (more readily done by 
a small, inexpensive volume), and then to encourage 
the pious reader in merciful works. 

Experience had taught them that aspirants to the 
Religious state would be most grateful for a detailed 
or clearer knowledge of the works of a Sister of Mercy, 
and it was hoped that this little volume would convey 
this information. 

We give an extract from a letter sent by Archbishop 
Kenrick on receiving a copy of the “Popular Life of 
Mother McAuley,” after its publication: 


TRANSLATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS. 


85 


“Rev. Mother: 

I thank you very much for the copy of 
the Life of your holy Foundress which I duly received 
and have just read through. It is exceedingly well 
written, very edifying and instructive, and in every 
respect a most creditable production. I am very sure 
that it will get a great circulation and do an immense 
good, etc. 

“I remain, Rev. Mother, 

“Your obedt. servt. in Christ, 

“Peter Richard Kenrick, Ahp . 
“Rev. Mother de Pazzi.” 

The second publication “Familiar Instructions of 
Rev. Mother McAuley”* may be considered as a sup¬ 
plement to the “Popular Life,” portraying as it does ■ 
the glowing fervor of her true and deeply religious 
spirit. While the Sisters feel confident that edification 
and enlightenment stamp every page of this book, yet 
as it appears for the first time in print they deemed it 
well to give a brief account of its authenticity. 

For many years the precepts contained in this book 
had been used in Ireland in manuscript form by the 
Sisters of Mercy. In this country, however, very few 
convents were so favored. 

Before bringing out this edition the Community had 
submitted the work to a rigid examination to prove 


*) All exhortation on the Renewal of Vows by Father Bourdakme 
published for the first time in English has been inserted at the end 
of this work. 



86 


TRANSLATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS. 


its authenticity. Mother McAuley’s spirit was found 
in every line. Moreover, a Religious who had been in 
the Novitiate at Baggot street, Dublin, who is at 
present a member of the Sisters of Mercy in America, 
remembered having heard these same instructions read 
from a manuscript, for lecture, in the Dublin Novi¬ 
tiate. 

The following is an extract from a letter, sent from 
the Superior in the above-mentioned convent, acknowl¬ 
edging the receipt of a copy of each work: 

“Dear Rev. Mother: 

* I am deeply grateful to you for 
your great kindness in sending me the ‘Popular Life 
of our Foundress, and her ‘Familiar Instructions. 
The last mentioned is perfect, and you deserve a vote 
of thanks from the entire congregation for compiling 
them. 

“May Our Lord give you health and strength to 
work for His greater glory. 

“Yours affectionately, etc.” 

Other pious works have been published by the Sis¬ 
ters of Mercy, the latest being a little handbook en¬ 
titled “Efficacious Prayers, and the Pious Practice of 
Perpetual Devotion to St. Joseph.” This was com¬ 
piled and reached its second edition in 1890. Its 
warm welcome at the hands of hundreds of devout 
clients of St. Joseph proves his well-tried intercession; 
a help that, as St. Teresa assures us, “has never been 
found to fail.” 


CHAPTER XIL 


g^pringfirlu jfounDation* — ^olDen 3|ubilee 
of itipotber be 115entle^, aub a^otber a^ar^ 
Eiguori ^albraitlT — ifounbatton at 
CDuecka ^prmgo^ — Concluoiom 

In the year 1890 the Sisters of Mercy received a 
call from Springfield, Mo. Not only Rev. Father 
Porta, pastor of the Immaculate Conception church, 
but the leading doctors and citizens of that city joined 
in the earnest solicitation. When Rt. Rev. J. J. Hogan, 
Bishop of Kansas City, added his word of invitation, 
they consented to go to Springfield. 

A house with a large piece of ground was purchased 
at the corner of Washington avenue and Chestnut 
street, and a hospital started on a small scale. After 
securing a somewhat firm foothold a frame addition 
was added to the original building. 

The patient Sisters struggled on, in these rather in¬ 
commodious quarters for fourteen years, gradually 
paying off a debt of $8,000, this being liquidated by 
some charitable bequests in 1904. 

At last the Sisters were free to consider the building 
of a much needed new hospital! Often of late had 
they been obliged to refuse admission to patients be- 

87 


88 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


cause of lack of room. The doctors were loud in their 
demands for a larger building, and the Sisters, recog¬ 
nizing the justness of the case, only awaited some 
start of funds. The Mother Superior, ever mindful 
of the motto so frequently repeated by the venerated 
Foundress: ‘Tay as you go,” would not permit the 
incurrence of a new debt until the old one had been 
lifted. And now in 1904 the Sisters had emerged free 
and courageous for a new undertaking! 

After much prayer and deliberation the new site 
was selected at the corner of Main and Nichols streets. 
Work on the new building was soon under way, the 
corner-stone being laid on July 6 , 1905 
cellency, Hon. J. W. Folk, Governor of Missouri. 
With characteristic affability he had consented to per¬ 
form the ceremony, and, with his suite. His Excellency 
was afterwards suitably entertained at Elfindale, the 
home of Mrs. Alice O’Day, one of the oldest and most 
generous friends of the Community. 

The new Springfield hospital is a handsome, four 
story brick building, occupying two sides of a square, 
and constructed on such lines as to enable the Sisters 
to make any necessary addition to the building with¬ 
out interfering with its original symmetry. For its 
specific purposes it is perfect in every detail, being sup¬ 
plied with all the modern appliances, safety elevator 
to every floor, etc. 

The city of Springfield has grown marvelously 
during the last few years, and this new hospital does 





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SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


89 


it credit. For the present, wards of the city and 
charity patients are in care of the Sisters, there being 
no city hospital. St. John’s at Springfield, like every 
institution of its kind conducted by the Sisters of 
Mercy, is strictly non-sectarian, no distinction of creed 
or nationality ever being made. 

Here the Sisters also visit the sick and the poor, 
and have charge of the parochial school attached to 
St. Joseph’s church, of which the Rev. Father Mau- 
ran, O.S.B., is the venerated pastor. The kindly in¬ 
terest of Father Mauran has been a great comfort to 
the Sisters in Springfield. In many a season of trial 
and struggle this good priest lent courage and inspi¬ 
ration to the hard-working Religious. And what 
wonder now that St. Joseph’s School gives evidence of 
their most excellent management! 

Another loyal friend of the Sisters since their com¬ 
ing to Springfield was the late lamented pastor of the 
Sacred Heart church, Rt. Rev. Dean Curran. In the 
early days of the foundation he often brought a sack 
of flour to the gate in his buggy, and from there would 
carry it himself, on his shoulder, to the kitchen. His 
dearest wish was to see the long expected new hospital 
built, but this consolation was denied him, as he died 
at St. John’s Flospital, St. Louis, in June, 1904. May 
he rest in peace. 

A terrible smallpox epidemic descended upon 
Springfield in 1899, and then, more than ever before, 
the citizens realized the true heroism that actuates a 


90 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


daughter of Mother McAuley. Two Sisters made a 
formal offer of their services to nurse this loathsome 
disease. Most gratefully the Mayor accepted their 
assistance, and called personally at the hospital to fix 
the remuneration. The Sisters, however, assured him 
that they would render their services gratis, and most 
hastily prepared for the ordeal. As they were carried 
away from the hospital to quarantine, all passing looked 
with commiseration, as on two who were doomed to 
die. 

The poor Sisters certainly met extreme hardships 
in the “Camps” (as the reservation was called), which 
contained a number of tents situated far apart. In 
one of these tents the Sisters lived, and in writing 
home they described it as the “smallest convent of 
Mercy in the United States.” The season was, for the 
most part, mid-winter; and it is easy to imagine the 
inconveniences, to say the least, of making a round of 
scattered tents! When speaking of the weather, one 
of the Sisters, true to the tradition of light-heartedness 
of the Order of Mercy, remarked “that while it was 
very cold out there, the cold could not come in to 
them, as the stove was at the door!” 

After some time one of these Sisters fell sick and 
had to be sent back to Springfield, but another Sister 
became “volunteer” at once and remained, with her 
companion Religious, at the “Camps” until the 
patients were few and far between. 

The citizens of Springfield testified their gratitude 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


91 


and appreciation of such unselfish services by accord¬ 
ing to the Sisters a vote of thanks in the City Council, 
and presenting them Avith a purse containing $500. 

Most of the patients in the “Camps” (it may be re¬ 
marked) were colored people; and it was a colored 
man who spoke to the city authorities of the invaluable 
services rendered by the Sisters, the result of which 
was the presentation above alluded to. The Sisters 
accepted the gift in the spirit in which it was offered, 
but they had never expected any remuneration. Their 
work was done for their heavenly Master, and to Him 
alone did they look for their reward. 

In the St. Louis convent occurred a memorable cele¬ 
bration on May 27, 1901. This was the Golden Ju¬ 
bilee of the beloved Superior, Rev. Mother Mary de 
Pazzi. Solemn High Mass and several low Masses 
began the day. In the afternoon. Archbishop Kain 
gave Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament, 
which was followed by an appropriate sermon, the 
preacher being the eloquent Father Phelan, pastor of 
Our Lady of Mount Carmel church. 

Numerous gifts were presented by friends of the 
Community on this occasion, among them being a gold 
ostensorium and a gold chalice, which latter gift Mrs. 
R. C. Kernes had procured in Chicago, having had to 
make a special journey for its selection. 

The following beautiful poem was written for the 
occasion by one of the Sisters. 


92 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


TO MOTHER M. M. DE PAZZL 

Fifty precious years are gleaming 
Through a vista bright to-day; 

Mercy’s smile is o’er them beaming, 
Light and shade around them play. 

From this mine of jewels rarest, 

Here before us open laid. 

We have culled a few — the fairest — 
And of them a chaplet made. 

All unskilled the hands that wrought it, 
Dearest Mother, yet to thee 

Have thy grateful children brought it 
On thy Golden Jubilee. 

MAY 27, 1851. 

Far off, in Erin’s lovely isle. 

Our Lady’s month makes nature smile. 

And scatters with a lavish hand 

Leaf, bud, and blossom o’er the land. 

The hawthorn white, the primrose pale. 

Lilac and woodbine fill each vale 

With fragrance, while the daisies white, 

Amidst rich verdure, charm the sight. 

The modest harebell bends its head 
Over the violet’s mossy bed, 

And, as in contrast, at their side 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


93 


The foxglove flaunts its robe of pride; 
Beneath the leafy hedges green 
Ferns, with their curling tops, are seen; 
Above, laburnums we behold. 

Waving their graceful wreaths of gold, 
And ev’ry hill is gay with bloom 
Of yellow furze and purple broom. 

The lark, a speck against the sky. 

Pours forth its matin song on high; 

Around us countless tiny throats 
Trill loud and clear their sweetest notes 
In chorus glad, as if to pay 
Homage to Mary, Queen of May. 

Dear land! Who e’er thy soil has trod 
And felt not closer drawn to God? 

Or who could ever from thee part 
And feel not in the aching heart 
A void, as though from it were riven 
Some holy thing that thou hadst given? 

In that blest isle, whose children gave 
Their tears, their lives, their blood to save 
Altar and home from tyrant hands, 

The cradle of our Order stands. 

Dublin contains that hallowed shrine 
Round which fond recollections twine; 

Our saintly Foundress left us there 
A heritage of virtues rare; 

With Mercy, sweet and gentle guide, 

To pilot us o’er life’s dark tide. 


94 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


Here, within Mary’s first retreat, 

Laying her young life at the feet 
Of Christ, her spouse, a novice kneels 
While to His goodness she appeals 
For courage His sweet yoke to bear — 

His burden light with Him to share. 

This morning she has cast aside 

The world’s vain garb, its pomp, its pride, 

And taken poverty’s array 

To follow in the narrow way 

Her Saviour’s steps, through toil and pain. 

Forsaking all, His love to gain. 

Her former name is heard no more. 

For in the place of that she bore 
The blest De Pazzi’s has been given 
To her, the chosen bride of Heaven. 

That pure soul in its fetters now 
Earth has no charm to hold; 

The seal of Christ is on her brow, 

And though, as yet, not bound by vow. 
Hers is the “hundredfold.” 


OCTOBER, 1851. 

Changed is the scene that meets our view 
October stains with gorgeous hue 
The trees, and fills with golden grain 
The granaries on hill and plain; 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


95 


While o’er the broad Atlantic wave 
A great ship bears our novice brave; 
But, as her native shore recedes, 

What wonder if her tried heart bleeds? 
Does she not in that island leave 
Friends, parents, sisters, all to grieve? 
Will God esteem the sacrifice 
The less who thus receives it twice. 

If trembling nature feels the sword 
That slays the victim of the Lord? 

Ah, no! for while on earth 
His own great loving heart found place 
For mother, friends, our fallen race. 
And e’en His place of birth. 


MAY 27, 1853. 

Almost two years have passed away. 
When, in the balmy month of May, 

The Empire City meets our gaze, 

Of streets and marts, a busy maze; 

And here St. Catharine’s convent walls 
Another scene to us recalls: 

We see within a chapel fair, 

An altar decked with flowers rare; 

Tall waxen tapers shed their light 
O’er crimson rose and lily white; 

Rich filmy lace each shrine enshrouds. 


96 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


Incense perfumes the air in clouds; 

Sweet music, breathing love’s desire, 

Steals softly from the Sister’s choir. 

Within the sanctuary bright 
Are Bishop, priest and acolyte. 

And Mass is being offered there 
For one who, rapt in fervent prayer. 
Prepares, with joy, to pay her vows 
To the Most High — her God, her Spouse. 
Deep silence in the chapel reigns, 

Hushed are the organ’s solemn strains, 

For now the Bishop stands 
That white-veiled aspirant before. 

While angels tremblingly adore 
The Host held in his hands. 

The novice reads in accents clear. 

That fall like music on the ear, 

The vows that bind to Poverty, 

Obedience, and Chastity — 

To serve the ignorant, the poor. 

The sick, till death shall life ensure. 

And then receives, O, great reward! 

The sacred body of Our Lord, 

The Wheat of the elect; 

“What God hath thus commenced in thee 
May He Himself perfect.” 

What can that soul’s thanksgiving be 
But an enraptured ecstacy? 

Like Mary, seated at His feet. 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


97 


She holds with Jesus converse sweet. 
The bride, when holy Mass is o’er, 
Comes to the altar-step once more; 
'‘What have I, what do I desire, 

On earth, in heaven,” intones the choir; 

“Come, Spouse of Christ” is said. 
The snowy veil aside she leaves. 

And from the Bishop’s hand receives 
A sombre one instead. 

The “Holy Spirit’s seal” — the ring — 
Is given her while Sisters sing 
‘^Ipse cum desponsata'^ — He 
Whom angels serve is Spouse to me. 
‘^Quam vidi, quam amavi” low 
The thrilling notes now come and go; 
The happy bride chants in reply, 

“An abject in His house am I,” 

Then prostrates in His presence there. 
While glad “Tp Deum” fills the air. 

O, blissful, blissful day! 

Its memory shall bright remain. 

Like sunshine o’er a barren plain. 
Through life’s long dreary way. 


98 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


JUNE, 1856. 

Five of the Fifty years are gone; 

Dropped, like rich jewels, one by one. 

Into God’s wondrous treasury. 

Part price of endless life to be. 

When ardent June, bright, glorious, warm, 
Casts over earth her subtle charm. 

And calls us from its cares apart 
To venerate the Sacred Heart, 

That youthful Sister leads 
A few brave toilers to the West, 

Sent by Superior’s behest. 

To plant there Mercy’s Order, blest 
With holy words and deeds. 

Once more the ties of home are broken. 
Once more the parting words are spoken. 
Oh! how it rends the soul to part 
From Sisters’ love and Mother’s heart. 

For though it is no earthly bond, 

Religion’s love is true and fond. 

So they go forth, a chosen band. 

Bearing to that far Western land 
Hope, comfort, love and tender care 
For Christ’s poor suff’ring members there. 
Onward they go, o’er prairies green, 

Till, where St. Louis’ spires are seen. 

They cross the Mississippi vast 
And reach their field of toil at last. 

As guardian, advocate and guide. 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


99 


St. Joseph here they claim, 

Giving the house where they reside 
Their glorious patron's name. 

The new Superior receives 
The charge her loving Master gives, 
But bears it not alone, 

For in the convent chapel He, 

Who will her help and counsel be. 
Reigns on His altar throne. 
Henceforth her joy shall be to bring 
New subjects to that hidden King 
So little loved and known. 


1856 TO 1901. 

What shall we of St. Louis say 
From that time to the present day? 

How count the golden deeds here wrought? 
Poor are relieved and children taught; 

The erring soul to Jesus brought; 

The innocent preserved from sin; 

The homeless stranger taken in; 

Captives in dreary cells consoled. 

Faith taught to those outside the fold; 

The sick made happy midst their pain. 

The worldling turned from pleasures vain; 
New branches of the Order sent 
To cheer the poor where’er they went, 


lOO 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


And lift them from despair. 

Louisville and New Orleans may, 

With San Diego, bless the day 
That brought her daughters there. 

Where Springfield reigns the Ozarks’ queen 
Sisters of Mercy now are seen. 

Whose gentle words impart 
To God’s dear little one His lore 
While their blest works of love restore 
Peace to the stricken soul once more. 

And soothe the aching heart. 

These works we see, but God alone 
Knows all the good seed she has sown. 
And He alone can tell 
The increase that may yet appear 
From what she cultivated here 
So wisely and so well. 

That seed once cast in earth so cold 
Is yielding now a thousandfold; 

Twas planted amidst toils and fears, 
Watered by fructifying tears. 

Cultured by faith in One above, 

Warmed by the sunshine of His love. 
Enclosed by Mercy’s watchful care 
And vivified by ceaseless prayer. 

O, may the harvest be 
Abundant, Lord, when thou shalt come 
To bear its garnered treasures home. 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


lOI 


MAY 27, 1901. 

Now the Fifty years are ended, 

And the rosary has been told; 

In its precious beads are blended 
Rarest gems with purest gold. 

O, rejoice ye! all her daughters, 

For the novice brought to view 
In our scene beyond the waters 
Is to-day your Mother true. 

Let your fervent prayers ascending 
To the great white throne above 
Win for her a never-ending 
lubilee of blissful love. 

To Paradise with Thee! 

Grant to the faithful steward, Lord, 
Whose task it was to plant and guard 
This field, an infinite reward 
For all eternity. 

Father of Mercies, Thou didst bless 
And crown her efforts with success. 
The glory all is Thine! 

Our grateful hearts to Thee we raise 
To magnify with thanks and praise 
Thy Providence Divine. 


102 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


August 15th of the previous year had witnessed al¬ 
most as noteworthy a celebration in the Golden Jubilee 
of Mother Mary Liguori Galbraith, who, with Mother 
de Pazzi, alone remains of all the pioneer Sisters. Of 
the six “foundation stones” who came from New York 
in 1856, these are the only survivors. 

Mother M. Liguori was made Mistress of Novices 
in 1870, and has held that responsible position for the 
past thirty-six years. 

In November, 1901, responding to an invitation 
from Bishop Fitz-Gerald, of Little Rock, the Sisters 
of Mercy opened a hospital and a school in Eureka 
Springs, Ark. Owing to the dearth of priests in that 
diocese, many of the smaller towns have no resident 
priest. The Catholic population of Eureka Springs, 
though few in number, had the consolation of having 
Mass said once a month during summer, because of 
the town being a health resort. But they never des¬ 
paired of getting a resident pastor. Even after being 
refused such a request for the third time, they de¬ 
termined to bring a Religious Order of nuns to the 
place, which establishment would necessitate the 
spiritual father. 

Mrs. R. C. Kerens had been interested in the 
proposition for years, as with her usual penetration 
she foresaw that the spiritual needs of the people and 
the greater glory of God would be thereby benefited. 
She had spoken again and again to the Sisters of 
Mercy of their suitability to this work, and though. 


SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 


103 


when they did consent to make the foundation, Mrs. 
Kerens’ ill-health prevented her from taking a promi¬ 
nent part in the undertaking, the Sisters always feel 
confident that her hearty co-operation can be relied 
upon in time of need. 

The zealous and devoted pastor of the Italian colony 
at Tontitown, Ark., Rev. P. Bandini, was also most 
anxious that our Sisters of Mercy should take up the 
work at Eureka Springs, and spoke to that effect to 
the Rt. Rev. Bishop who accordingly sent the invita¬ 
tion already alluded to to the Sisters. 

The long suspense which followed the Sisters’ ac¬ 
quiescence in this new work was caused by lack of 
necessary funds. Finally, Mrs. Edward Walsh (nee 
Mafiitt), her sisters, Mrs. Bates and Miss Emilie 
Maffitt, with her brother, Mr. William C. Mafibtt, came 
to the aid of the Sisters. Their names will go down 
to posterity as being the instruments chosen by al¬ 
mighty God for the forming of the new mission at 
Eureka Springs. 

A small cottage next to the hospital was bought for 
a convent. To this, as also the furnishing of it, Mrs. 
Edward Walsh contributed generously. In the chapel 
she erected a handsome altar in memory of her deceased 
husband, and donated a beautiful statue of the Sacred 
Heart to be placed over the altar whenever space per¬ 
mits. 

The Catholics of Eureka Springs have increased in 
number and in zeal since the advent of the Sisters, and 


104 SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. 

their efficient young pastor, Rev. W. J. Carroll, is 
much encouraged by the religious prospect. 

With this account of the last foundation undertaken 
by our Sisters of Mercy, we will bring this chronicle 
to a close. 

Because of business so rapidly invading the neigh¬ 
borhood of Twenty-second street, the hospital and the 
convent will be removed to a more desirable locality 
in the western part of St. Louis. Although a large 
piece of ground on Cook and Newstead avenues has 
been purchased for this purpose, the loan made to 
close this deal will have to be paid before the Sisters 
will erect new buildings. That financial assistance, 
both from the sale of their present residences and from 
their numerous friends may not be withheld for long, 
is the prayer of all who know the good Sisters of 
Mercy. 

But ere we close let us express the heartfelt grati¬ 
tude of the Sisters to those who have stood by the 
Community during the trials of these fifty years. 

For not only in the stories of Southern battlefields, 
not only in the records of the famous Crimea, do we 
look for the sufferings of a Sister of Mercy, but 
among the sick and the poor of a great city the soul 
of that noble woman meets many a trial in the alembic 
of human endurance. 

Of all those who, in St. Louis, lent the Sisters a 
helping hand we must offer their gratitude especially 
to the Rev. Jesuit Fathers, who, as we have seen, 



HOTEL-DIEU — EUREKA SPRINGS, ARK. 






















SPRINGFIELD FOUNDATION. IO 5 

never failed in charity and kindness. In them as in 
Archbishop Kenrick was realized the truth of the old 
adage, “a friend in need it a friend indeed.” 

We have followed the Sisters in their various 
charitable endeavors of fifty years. We have watched 
the growth of the Institution; we have seen the grain 
of mustard seed become a tree, and the “birds of the 
air,” viz., the poor, the sick, and the suffering, take 
refuge among its branches. We have also seen what 
a generous mother-house the St. Louis Convent has 
been, sending her daughters into distant dioceses to 
work for God and humanity. 

Nothing now remains for us but to say “God speed” 
to the noble Sisters of Mercy! In the words of the 
Royal Psalmist, “Prospere, procede, et regna.” 




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POEMS 


WRITTEN ON DIFFERENT OCCASIONS 

BY 

SISTERS OF MERCY 


ST. LOUIS, MO. 





§)et 3 en SDOIO10 of (Dur ^^ueeut 


I DOLOR. 

SIMEON’S PROPHECY. 

Bright the sunbeams o’er Judea 
In the dewy morning shine; 

It is yet the early springtime 
Ere the leaf is on the vine. 

But on fig-trees buds are swelling 
And the Jordan’s banks are green; 
When, Jerusalem approaching, 

Two blest travelers are seen. 

Mary and her Spouse, St. Joseph, 
Come from Bethlehem to bring 
To the Temple its Creator! 

To Jerusalem its King! 

Through the streets they pass unheeded 
God thus hidden who could know? 
Through the Temple’s open portal 
With Emmanuel they go. 

Long had aged Simeon waited: 

Now the Lord repairs his trust. 

Earth has budded forth its Saviour — 
Heaven’s clouds have rained the Just! 
Not in vain the Holy Spirit, 

109 


I lO 


POEMS. 


Here, to-day, his steps has led — 
For before him stands the Virgin 
Who has crushed the serpent’s head! 

Purer than the snow untrodden, 
Purer than the sun’s pure light 
Is this Virgin, though fulfilling 
Moses’ ancient legal rite. 

She is daughter of the Father, 

Virgin Mother of the Son, 

Spouse of the most Holy Spirit — 
Yet this law she does not shun. 

Humbly she presents the Infant 
Sighed for, and expected long. 

In his arms Simeon takes Him, 
Pouring forth prophetic song. 

Clearly does that maiden holy 
Seem to see the torments fierce. 
Presaged in the solemn warning: 
“Thy own soul a sword shall pierce 

Agony and base betrayal. 

Bloody scourge and awful doom 
Of a shameful crucifixion 
In her sweet Child’s future loom. 
Like a fair, white, fragile lily 
By the tempest rudely bent, 

Mary kneels before Simeon — 

Even now her soul is rent. 


POEMS. 


111 


Until death the Virgin Mother 
In her bleeding heart shall bear 
This first dart of bitter sorrow, 
Simeon’s words have planted there; 
Holy Anna’s fervent praises 
Bring no consolation now; 

Mary seems to see a thorn-wreath 
On the King of Israel’s brow! 

She receives the prophet’s blessing, 
Takes from him the Child again. 

Oh! could she but shield her Treasure 
From the rage of cruel men! 

Down to Nazareth they bear Him 
To their lowly dwelling-place — 
Where, the Sacred Writings tell us, 
“Jesus grew in age and grace.” 


II DOLOR. 


FLIGHT INTO EGYPT. 

Weary from his long day’s labor 
Wrapt in slumber Joseph lies; 
Suddenly a dream comes o’er him, 
And an angel stands before him. 
Saying unto him, “Arise—” 


112 


POEMS. 


“Take the Infant with His Mother 
And, though bleak the day and wild, 
Fly to Egypt — to the stranger; 

In thine own land there is danger; 
Herod would destroy the Child.” 

Joseph quickly calls the Virgin, 

Tells her peril draweth nigh; 

Then, obedient to the warning. 

Waiting not for dawn of morning. 

In the midnight gloom they fly. 

Hiding Jesus ’neath her mantle — 
Herod’s soldiers may be near — 
Mary’s eyes with tears are filling. 

In her veins the blood is chilling, 

And she trembles with the fear: 

Will they take her Infant from her? 

Do they seek at once to slay 
In her arms the Lord of heaven? 

Must this Lamb as victim given 
There be sacrificed to-day? 

Queen of martyrs, thoughts so dreadful 
Make thee at each sound to start! 
Well art thou that title earning 
For the sword of grief is turning 
In the raw wound of thy heart. 



POEMS. 


II3 


As they hasten o’er the desert, 

Angels throng around their path. 
Could they see a marvel greater 
Than the world’s divine Creator 
Fleeing from a creature’s wrath? 

Legends tell of stately palm-trees 
Bending down to give them shade; 
And of pure, fresh water springing 
From the sand, refreshment bringing 
To them when a halt was made. 

Yet, alas, too oft they suffer 

Hunger, thirst, fatigue, alarms — 

Not for self does Joseph holy 
And the Mother grieve, but solely 
For the sweet Child in her arms. 

When they drew near heathen Egypt — 
So the old traditions tell — 

Idols, at God’s awful splendor 
Veiled ’neath childhood weak and tender. 
To the earth in fragments fell. 

Virgin Mother, through thy dolors 
Help us from our hearts to tear 
All the idols that we cherish. 

Letting self and creatures perish. 

So thy Son may enter there! 


Ill DOLOR. 


THE LOSS IN JERUSALEM. 

To Sion’s Temple had St. Joseph yearly 
With Mary journeyed for the Paschal feast. 

Now with them goes the Son they love so dearly 
That Temple’s Master and Supreme High-Priest! 

A boy of twelve, so full of grace and beauty, 

That all behold Him with intense delight. 

He serves His parents in each lowly duty, 

Making the darkest hour for them seem bright. 

After the close of Paschal celebrations 
Toward Nazareth they turn their steps again; 

But He whose task is to teach all nations 
Stays in the Temple, with its learned men. 

Meanwhile St. Joseph and the Virgin Mother, 

With pilgrim bands apart, are traveling on; 

Each thinks the holy Child is with the other 
And know not till they meet that He is gone. 

Ah, weeping Mother! thy true joy has vanished 
And sorrow holds thee under stern control. 

Eve, when from Eden by Jehovah banished 
Knew not such anguish as now wrings thy soul! 


POEMS. 


II5 

Sadly do Mary and St. Joseph wander 
Seeking their treasure all that gloomy night; 

Dawn breaking faintly o’er the hill-top yonder 
Brings them no brightness — they have lost their Light. 

What has befallen Him ? they ask each other. 

Who will give shelter to the tender Child ? 

Visions arise before the stricken Mother, 

Of bandits, lurking in the mountains wild. 

Or has this Victim, with zeal’s ardor burning, 

Gone to seek death in torments of the cross ? 

Has He, urged onward by love’s eager yearning 
Gone to save sinners from eternal loss? 

Now does Simeon’s sad, prophetic warning 
Ring in her ears: “Thy soul a sword shall pierce!” 
What if her Lamb should, ere another morning. 

Be immolated amid tortures fierce! 

Over Jerusalem the second night is falling; 

Vain has their search been through the dreary day; 
Still does the terror of these thoughts appalling 
Hold that sweet Mother ’neath its awful sway. 

Dawn sees them searching through the Holy City — 
Vainly they seek; of Him they find no trace; 

Kind eyes to Mary turn with looks of pity. 

Touched by the sadness of that lovely face. 


ii6 


POEMS. 


Noon finds them standing in the Temple’s portal — 
Why starts the Mother with ecstatic joy? 

Ah! that sweet sound is not the voice of mortal 
Those are the accents of her God — her boy! 

Here do they find Him, ’midst the Temple’s splendor, 
Hearing and questioning the sages wise; 

God’s wisdom speaking through a child so tender, 
God’s mercy looking through those sweet, grave eyes. 

‘‘And He went with them,” says the Scripture holy, 
“To Nazareth and was subject to them there.” 
Mother, ask Jesus to make us meek and lowly — 
Teach us, with Him, to love retreat and prayer. 


IV DOLOR. 


MARY MEETS JESUS WITH HIS CROSS. 

A HOLY group stands grieving 
Golgotha’s road nearby; 

Jesus, their Lord is leaving 
Jerusalem to die; 

Mary has come to meet Him 
With Magdalen and John; 

Her loving heart would greet Him 
As here He passes on. 


POEMS. 


II7 


Hark to that horrid yelling 
Borne to the mourner’s ear — 

In dreadful accents telling 

That He, her Son, draws near. 
See! from the gate emerging. 

The Roman soldiers first. 

Their Victim forward urging 
With lash, as one accursed! 

With hatred unabating. 

Priest, Scribe, and Pharisee, 
Their rage on Him are sating 
In deeds of cruelty. 

The rabble hoot and jeer Him, 
They pluck His matted hair. 

Not one is there to fear Him, 

Not one to love Him there! 

’Midst curse and imprecation 
To Calvary they bring 
The outcast of His nation — 

The Jews’ rejected King! 

His seamless garment wearing 
He comes, that Victim good. 

Like Isaac He is bearing 
The sacrificial wood. 

The rough cross galls and bruises, 
Weighing His shoulders down; 
The blood, a slow stream, oozes 
From ’neath the thorny crown; 


Il8 POEMS. 

His feet, torn, bruised and bleeding. 
Crimson the flinty road; 

Yet soldiers rude, unheeding. 

His onward footsteps goad. 

Mary in sorrow gazes — 

Silent, save one low moan 

When Jesus, turning, raises 
His eyes to meet her own. 

Alas! the blood-drops stealing 
From thorn-wounds on His brow 

And in His eyes congealing 

Have made them sightless now! 

His weak hand clears them slowly 
Then, while their glances meet. 

He falls — that Victim holy — 
Falls there at Mary’s feet! 

Simeon’s sword is rending 
That stricken Mother’s soul: 

While she o’er Jesus bending 
Can scarce her grief control. 

The moment’s hesitation 
Her love had won is o’er; 

With shouts of execration 

They drag Him on once more. 

The Mother, sadly turning 
Toward Calvary, follows on 

With holy women mourning 
For Him, her only Son. 


POEMS. 


II9 


V DOLOR. 

MARY AT THE FOOT OF THE CROSS. 

Noon on bleak Golgatha’s motmtain: 

Weak and trembling Jesus stands. 

Brutal men are rudely tearing 
Off the garments He is wearing, 

Woven by His Mother’s hands. 

On the cross they fling Him bleeding; 

Harsh the echoes now awoke 
By the heavy hammer falling 
On blunt nails with sound appalling: 

Mary’s heart feels ev’ry stroke. 

High they raise the cross and drop it 
Roughly in the hollowed rock; 

Pain through nerve and sinew quivers, 

Flows His blood in crimson rivers. 

As His wounds tear at the shock. 
Darkness veils the face of nature; 

Save a few, His friends all flown! 

Scribe and Pharisee deride Him; 

Soldiers casting dice beside Him, 

Claim His vesture as their own! 

Thieves are crucified near-by Him: 

Both in precious blood are laved. 

One his heart to Jesus hardened. 

One through penitence is pardoned — 

One is lost — the other saved! 


120 


POEMS. 


Mother! take thy station near Him, 
Comfort thou the holy One; 

Thirst torments Him, wounds are burning, 

Into fire His blood seems turning: 

What a death-bed for thy Son! 

Oh, those cruel thorns! He can not 
For His sacred head find rest! 

Could that Mother but embrace Him, 

Take Him from the cross and place Him, 
As in childhood, on her breast! 

But alas! she can not reach Him, 

Can not give Him slightest ease — 

She must stand and see Him languish 

Three long hours in bitter anguish, 

Ere His agony shall cease! 

Jesus turns His sweet glance toward her — 
Says to her, “Behold thy son!” 

Then to John, “Behold thy Mother!” 

Making thus Himself our Brother, 

Giving us to her with John! 

Mary’s eyes in tears are swimming. 

On her cheeks the drops are red. 

Jesus has the last word spoken. 

Now that Sacred Heart is broken. 

One loud cry — and He is dead. 


POEMS. 


I2I 


Queen of martyrs, who will bring thee 
Solace in thy awful woe? 

Ah! another blow is given — 

With a spear His side is riven — 
Blood and water o’er thee flow! 

Earth is shaken to its center! 

Sways the cross from side to side! 
As to give the mourners lowly 
His last benediction holy. 

With the Host — the Crucified! 

Mother, lead us close to Jesus — 

We have caused His death by sin. 
O’er it, in repentance weeping. 

Let us here, our vigils keeping. 
Through His sorrows pardon win. 


VI DOLOR. 

JESUS IS LAID IN MARY’S ARMS. 

White and lifeless lies the Saviour — 
Mary’s knee supports His head; 

She beneath the bare cross seated 
Sees the sacrifice completed: 

Sees the Paschal Victim dead! 


POEMS. 


Oh! that torn and mangled body! 

Eyes where death has quenched the light 
Flesh with scourges lacerated — 

Hands and feet nail-perforated — 

Side rent open — meet her sight! 

Wounded hands and feet she cleanses: 

Blood-clots fill the nail-marks there. 

Lips and eyes she gently closes — 
Pain-distorted limbs composes — 

Smoothes the matted auburn hair. 

With the precious balsam filling 

Thorn-wounds on His sacred brow, 

O’er each deep scar she lingers, 

Closing it with loving fingers — 

Tears and balm anoint Him now! 

His dear arms — she can not close them! 

Still in death held open wide. 

Seem to His rent Heart inviting 
All to come in love uniting — 

There is room for all inside! 

Magdalen, His feet is clasping, 

John is weeping sadly near; 

Soon the Mother, broken-hearted. 

From her dead Child must be parted, 
Soon must place Him on the bier! 


POEMS. 


123 


Childless Mother! yet not childless — 
Children of thy grief are we; 

From the cross our Victim-Brother 
Gave us thee to be our Mother; 

Keep us close to Him and thee. 


VII DOLOR 

JESUS IS LAID IN THE TOMB. 

Over Calvary the glory 
Of the setting sun is shed. 

Three dark hours its light was shrouded, 
Now its radiance unclouded, 

Ealls on Mary’s grief-bent head. 

Noble Joseph, Nicodemus, 

And the well-beloved John — 

Linen, myrrh, and aloes bearing — 
Come with reverence, preparing 
For the burial of her Son. 

With her own pure hand she covers 
Lovingly the sacred face; 

Then in speechless woe bends o’er Him, 
Kneels a moment to adore Him, 

Give Him one last fond embrace. 


124 


POEMS. 


“As the sea great is thy sorrow: 

Who shall heal thee?” Through thy heart 
Sorrow’s last sharp sword is driven, 

And thy soul with anguish riven: 

Thou must from thy loved one part. 

In the linen sheets they wind Him 
Tenderly, these holy men, 

And their precious burden taking, 

While the Mother’s heart is breaking, 

To the garden bear Him then. 

Past the grave where old tradition 
Tells us Adam’s bones were laid, 

Goes the sorrowful procession 
With Him who, for man’s transgression. 
Was a willing Victim laid. 

Weeping women sadly follow 

In the twilight’s growing gloom; 

Mary’s anguish none can measure 
When they hide her God, her Treasure, 

In the darkness of the tomb. 

On her heart the weight seems falling 
As they roll the heavy stone; 

To the grave its entrance closing. 

Christ is there in death reposing. 

She must life endure alone! 



POEMS. 


125 


Gone, for her, the Light of heaven; 

Gone, for her, all charm of earth! 

Now that He from her is taken. 

Naught can joy in her awaken. 

Naught in life for her have worth. 

To Jerusalem John leads her. 

By the road her Son has trod: 

Angels o’er that pathway hover. 

For the rocks are sprinkled over 
With the life-blood of a God! 

These blest spirits soon will gather 
All the drops that wasted seem 
They, in loving wonder vanished 
Know that even one thus lavished 
Would a thousand worlds redeem! 

Dim and spectral in the moonlight 
Looms the cross beside the way; 

Mary kneels, that wood embracing. 
Which, the Tree of Life replacing. 
Conquers sin and death for aye. 

Lip and cheek and hand are blood-stained 
When she leaves the sacred tree; 
Mother, midst what desolation 
Was the price of man’s salvation 
Paid by Jesus born of thee! 


126 


POEMS. 


While thou art His steps retracing 
All reminds thee of thy loss; 

In thy dear Son’s pain partaking 
Thou in agony art making 

Now thy sad Way of the Cross! 


POEMS. 


127 


i?or iSetiermo spotljcr’s iTcast^apap, 1890 . 

O DEAREST Reverend Mother, ’tis many years, you 

know, 

Since the Fiat came from Heaven for you and I to go, 

To where the cross awaited, with its triumphs far 

apart. 

But the arrows and the anguish to penetrate the heart. 

The little bark was steering on the waters calm and 

clear. 

No dreading of the storm that was looming up so near; 

What tongue could tell the sorrow, what pen depict 

the scene 

Of that long dark night of horror — ’tis like a mid¬ 
night dream! 

So fraught with every evil its withering bitter blast. 

But now, thank God, ’tis over, and the triumph came 

at last. 

Oh, who could still the tempest or who disperse the 

gale 

But the One who ever watches ’neath the Eucharistic 

veil? 


128 


POEMS. 


But with Jesus at the helm our little bark sped on, 
Though her sails were rent and torn, and her masts 


all nearly gone. 

Yet her colors still are flying, and her watchword from 

on high: 

“Let us follow close to Jesus, let us keep our Rule or 

die.” 


POEMS. 


129 


^0 ^arcl) 19^ 1859 . 

Beloved St. Joseph, our dear, chosen guide, 

Our hopes and our sorrows to thee we confide; 

Oh, be, then, our guardian o’er life’s troubled sea 
Till safe in Jerusalem, blest Patron, with thee! 
We unite in our joy with the angels to-day 
As an offering of love, as a tribute of praise, 

Like a sweet-smelling incense to thy throne ’twill 

ascend 

Whilst thou’lt to the wants of thy exiles attend. 

Beloved St. Joseph, ’tis true what we say — 

Thou hast aided the call that brought us away, 
From those that we love, from those who are dear, 
To bear the sweet yoke, to Jesus keep near. 

As this, one little vineyard, is placed in thy care 
And Jesus, its Master, would still have thee there 
Thou wilt pray that its number increasing may be. 
To labor in love for Him and for Thee. 

Beloved St. Joseph, keep, danger away. 

And be to our Mother a light and a stay;- 
Who points to her children the cross and the crown 
And the bands of her Master, wherewith she is 
bound. 

Nay, plead that the Spirit all holy may come 
To strengthen her soul ’till the warfare is done. 

To lighten the burden she bears for each one. 

To whisper of heaven, that dear promised home. 


130 


POEMS. 


Beloved St. Joseph, to us you are dear; 

Then ask for us love that casteth out fear, 

And the love that would live “but to suffer and die,” 
Uniting its labor till life’s latest sigh. 

The love that will gather from all that is around 
And in them an offering for Jesus has found. 

Then lead us, thy children, up Golgatha’s height. 

For suffering ascends when love is its guide. 

And under the shadow and seal of that crown 

Midst the flame of love’s suffering let thy daughters 
be found. 

We were chosen to follow our dear, suffering Lord 

Through the dark, narrow way, and the rough, thorny 

road, 

To carry His Ensign, the livery of love. 

Our lamps to prepare for the nuptials above. 

Beloved St. Joseph, to us you will be 

A star, whose bright shining with gladness we’ll see. 

Safely guiding us on to the mansions above — 

Till Mercy has finished her mission of love. 

Thou wilt come to the little ones called to our care 
With thy holy direction. Ah! wilt thou be there. 

To aid our endeavors, though weak they may be 
To bring them to Jesus, to Mary, and thee. 

Forget not the house — ’tis our dear Lady’s own — 
Where virtue and innocence oft found a home; 

Cast on it thy mantle, oh shield it each hour 
That sin and its malice may never have power! 


POEMS. 


I3I 


And come to the poor one, the prisoner of crime, 
Redeem him, St. Joseph, redeem him in time 
As a trophy for Jesus, from sin and from hell! 
How gladly in heaven thy praises we’ll tell. 

But when life has ended, and danger is nigh. 

The darkness of midnight will then veil the sky. 
’Tis then, loving Patron, our souls you’ll sustain 
When terror and anguish around us will reign. 
And safe through the valley of death we will flee 
Accompanied by Jesus, Our Lady, and thee! 


132 


POEMS. 


^goni^mg l^cait of l)at)e tET^ou £prrc^ 

on t\)t SDvnng! 

(Lines suggested while assisting the Sick in St. John’s Hospital.) 

Many souls are departing from their prison-house of 

clay, 

In Thy precious blood, O Jesus, wash their sinful 

stains away! 

Youth and age alike are drifting to the vast eternal 

shore. 

Glazing eyes to Thee are turning, parching lips Thine 

aid implore: 

While around them evil spirits, their unholy trade 
are plying: 

Agonizing Heart of Jesus, have thou mercy on 
the dying! 

One lies here, the icy death-drops glistening on his 

pallid brow, 

Soon that young life must be yielded — where seeks 

he comfort now? 

See! the trembling hands are clasping Thy loved image 

to his breast. 

Through those wounds he begs for mercy — in that 

Heart he finds his rest. 

As he cries to thee for pardon, on thy boundless 
love relying: 

Agonizing Heart of Jesus, have thou mercy on 
the dying! 


POEMS. 


133 


Some like him await the moment that shall place them 

with the dead, 

Strengthened by the last anointing, nourished with the 

Living Bread; 

But alas! how many others for whose weal no prayer 

ascends 

Save the pleading of their angels, still their best and 

truest friend. 

Hearken to the voiceless whisper of each guardian 
spirit sighing — 

Agonizing Heart of Jesus, have thou mercy on 
the dying? 

Thousands for whom thou hast suffered struggle in 

the pangs of death — 

Grant them pardon, grace, and mercy, ere they draw 

their parting breath; 

They, O Lord, were purchased dearly, for Thy very 

life they cost. 

And since Thou for all didst give it why should even 

one be lost? 

O forgive their past offences; hear the voice of 
anguish crying: 

Agonizing Heart of Jesus, have thou mercy on 
the dying! 

There are sinners on their death-bed who for years 

have slighted grace. 

Letting earth’s deceitful pleasures in their hearts usurp 

Thy place — 


34 


POEMS. 


Do not now, O Lord! forsake them, all unworthy 

though they be. 

Grant them true, sincere contrition — make them turn 

once more to Thee. 

Souls whom Thou hast died to ransom in the 
straits of death are lying: 

Agonizing Heart of Jesus, have thou mercy on 
the dying! 

Through Thy Mother’s bitter sorrows, Lord most 

merciful, we pray: 

Purify each soul departing in Thy precious blood this 

day. 

Send St. Michael to assist them’ in that last decisive 

strife. 

And when death shall close the combat, grant to them 

eternal life. 

Happy souls now safe in heaven join with us on 
earth in crying: 

Agonizing Heart of Jesus, have thou mercy 
the dying! 


on 


POEMS. 


135 


I HAD a dream on New Year’s Day: 

It seemed to me that, far away, 

’Neath lofty cedars on a hill 
That overlooked sweet Josephville 
I stood. When lo! a vision fair 
Came floating softly through the air! 

A group of angels gleaming bright 
Athwart the cold gray morning light; 
Swinging, from censors which they bore, 
The incense sweet. They hovered o’er 
The humble wooden chapel, where 
Knelt white-veiled noyices in prayer. 
More gently now they slowly swing 
Their golden censors, for their King 
Rules there upon His altar-throne 
O’er hearts that throb for Him alone. 
Fair seemed that altar to their sight 
For loving hands, with flowers bright 
Had decked it; while the cedars green 
Filled up the spaces left between. 

And yet although it quickly neared 
The time for Mass no priest appeared. 
The moments fly — the hour is past 
A wondering angel spoke at last. 


136 


POEMS. 


His silvery voice, so soft and clear, 

Fell like sweet music on my ear. 

“Why, on this great and solemn feast. 

Is there no Mass ? Where is the priest ? 
Has illness chained him to his bed. 

That thus it must be left unsaid?” 

St. Michael from his place inside 
The little chapel thus replied: 

“Ah, no, dear brother; would ’twere so 
For then he might unpunished go. 

Alas! the good old priest, he took 
It in his head to write a book — 

Of which the title page I saw. 

’Twas something on the Sunday law; 

I know not whether verse or prose. 

And now he is trying to dispose 
Of that same book the livelong week 
And here in vain his form ye seek. 

So on this New Year’s Day, alas! 

We have no priest, we have no Mass. 
And Jesus’ chosen ones are left 
Of His Divine Repast bereft. 

Oh, fellow angels! will not he 
In sight of all blameworthy be 
For leaving thus his post to-day? 

Go, brothers, go, without delay. 

Wing back your upward flight to heaven. 
And pray that he may be forgiven.” 

Yet one brief space the group delayed 


POEMS. 


137 


O’er where the Novice Mistress prayed; 
Upraising each angelic hand 
They blessed her and the little band 
Of youthful novices, who there 
Dwelt happily beneath her care. 

The vision faded from my view; 

And I awoke to find it true. 


38 


POEMS. 


tU^o Dear HeDereuD ^otl)er, 27, 1888. 

Happy feast-day, dearest Mother! 

Bright and joyous may it be — 

May thy name-saint win rich graces 
From the Sacred Heart for thee! 

Graces, too, for us, thy children, 

Who to-day surround thee here 

Full of gladness, still to claim thee 
As our Reverend Mother dear. 

Scarcely did we fear to lose thee. 

For we knew the might of prayer; 

Yet the very thought around us 
Cast a shadow everywhere. 

But, as brighter seems the sunshine 
When the clouds have passed away. 

So our happiness is greater 
For the by-gone fears to-day. 

Thanks, dear Mother, for resuming 
Such a burden o’er again; 

Our fidelity shall make it 
Lighter far than it has been; 


POEMS. 


139 


By the strict and true observance 
Of our Holy Rule shall we 
Bring a blessing on our labors, 

Prove our gratitude to thee. 

Queen of mercy, bless our Mother 
Ere thy month of May has flown. 
Crown her life with countless graces. 
Guard her children as thine own. 

Ask thy Son to leave her with us 
While we need her watchful care; 
And when glorious Heaven receives her 
Let us be together there. 


140 


POEMS. 


Welcome J^ome! 

Welcome home! dear Reverend Mother, 
Welcome to thy vacant chair; 

Welcome to the hearts that vainly 
Longed to see thee seated there. 

Welcome! for the time passed slowly 
In thy absence, Mother dear — 

Brief it may have seemed to others 
But to us ’twas long and drear. 

Thou art welcome, for thy children 
Missed thee sadly everywhere; 

Missed thy smile at recreation 

And thy well-known voice at prayer. 

In the little trials and crosses 
That we meet with day by day. 

Who was there that could console us 
While our Mother was away? 

Daily to the throne of mercy 
Did our fervent prayers ascend 

That the God of love, our Mother 
From all danger might defend. 

That the glorious Virgin Mary, 

Queen of angels and of men. 

Might protect and bring thee safely 
To thy children home again. 


POEMS. 


I4I 


Thou art home, oh, do not leave us 
Anymore, but with us stay 
Till the angels come to call thee 
From this dreary world away! 
And when they shall bear thy spirit 
Far above the heaven’s dome. 

May the thrilling voice of Jesus 
Sweetly bid thee ‘Velcome home!” 


142 


POEMS. 


tlTo tiear MeberenU 
iftasft of ^ar^ gpagualm t)e 
gpa^ 27t 1879^ 


Dear Reverend Mother, our prayers have ascended 
To the Heart of our Jesus this feast-day of thine, 

To that Heart wherein sweetness and mercy are 

blended, 

Where all receive grace from a fountain divine! 

When kneeling before Him this morning, we pleaded 
For graces and blessings unnumbered for thee; 

We asked Him to spare thee, for thou art still needed 
To guide us to Him o’er life’s troubled sea! 

We spoke to His Heart while within us He rested. 
And begged Him to leave thee for many a year; 

To stand at the helm, though the waves are foam- 

crested ; 

When thou steerest the vessel, what storm can we 
fear ? 

Fie will grant our petitions for, oh! He has numbered 
The trials endured by His spouse for His sake; 

Did we ask Him if during those dark hours He 

slumbered 

He would answer: 'T slept, but My Heart was 
awake.” 




POEMS. 


143 


a 1885 . 

The New Year has passed us with tears in his eyes, 
Almost we can hear his last echoing sighs; 

But his youthful successor stands mirthfully here, 
While we wish thee, dear Mother, a happy New Year! 

May joy, like the smile of an angel illume 
Every hour of the future, dispelling the gloom 
Which the dark frown of sorrow has spread o’er the 

past. 

And thus peace unalloyed be thy guerdon at last. 

Through life’s dreary exile may faith be thy light, 
When fears cloud thy soul with the shadows of night, 
Pointing ever to Jesus, like Bethlehem’s star. 

Which guided the Magi to Him from afar. 

Around thee may hope with soft radiance shine, 

As a ray from the Heart of the Infant divine. 

Or a gleam from the love-light on Mary’s sweet face. 
While she clasps the Child Jesus in tender embrace. 

May charity burn, like a heaven-lighted fire 
Within thee, consuming each earthly desire; 

Till thy purified spirit shall rest far above 
‘Tn the clefts of the rock” like the mystical dove. 


144 


POEMS. 


And mercy, sweet mercy! O may it still be 
The virtue most loved and most cherished by thee; 
While it binds thee to Jesus with fetters of gold, 

May it draw down upon thee his treasures untold. 

May Jesus, remembering His own Mother’s care 
And the love which He bore her, give ear to our prayer, 
That our dear Reverend Mother may watch o’er us 

here 

For many and many a happy New Year. 


POEMS. 


H 5 


Dear KeDerenD ^potljer^ Cl)ri0tma0t 1886^ 

Happy Christmas, dearest Mother, 

Bright and joyous may it be! 

All thy children join in wishing 
Many glad returns to thee. 

May the little Infant Jesus 

Christmas gifts on thee bestow; 

Gifts more precious than the Magi 
Brought to Bethlehem long ago. 

May He give thee love so perfect 
As like purest gold to be! 

May He prayers most fervent spirit. 

Like sweet incense, give to thee! 

In thy heart may he more brightly 
Make the love of suffering glow. 

Abnegation, self-denial. 

Such the myrrh He will bestow! 

Take thy Christmas gifts, dear Mother, 

From the Infants hands, and then 

Lay the gold and myrrh and incense 
At His sacred feet again. 

Other treasures, too, before Him 
In the manger thou canst lay: 

Words of consolation spoken. 

Tears of sorrow wiped away. 


146 


POEMS. 


Hearts that thou hast taught to love Him; 
Souls that thou hast won from sin; 

Poor and sick and orphan tended; 
Homeless outcasts taken in. 

Guilty ones whom thou didst solace 
In their gloomy prison, where 

Faith was growing dim within them, 

Hope was yielding to despair. 

Ah! our new-born Saviour prizes 

More the gifts that thou canst bring 

Than earth’s rarest gold and jewels, 

Than the treasures of a king. 

Ask of Him to make thy children 
Worthy of their titles grand: 

Mary’s daughters, Jesus’ spouses, 

Gentle mercy’s chosen band! 

Happy Christmas, dearest Mother, 

Do we wish you once again! 

May thy future be more blessed 
Than thy past has ever been; 

May the Star of Bethlehem light thee 
Safely through life’s dreary way; 

Jesus bless thee, Mary guard thee, 

Joseph be thy shield and stay! 


POEMS. 


147 


g)acreD l^eart* 

O Heart of Jesus! Heart of God! 

O source of boundless love; 

By angels praised, by saints adored 
From their bright thrones above!. 

The poorest, saddest heart on earth 
May claim thee for its own. 

O burning, throbbing heart of God, 
Too late, too little known! 

The very sound of these sweet words: 

The Sacred Heart can give 
To the most lorn and burdened soul 
Strength to endure and live! 

The hearts of men too oft are hard 
And full of selfish care. 

But in the Sacred Heart we find 
A refuge from despair. 

Then unto Thee, dear Lord, we come 
To crave the blessed rest 
Of those who lay their weary heads 
Upon Thy sacred breast. 


148 


POEMS. 


Dear HeDerenD gpotljer, Cljrt^tmas?, 1900* 


Dearest Reverend Mother 
May this Christmas bring 
Unto thee rich graces 

From oiir Infant King; 

All thy heart can wish for 
All thy soul may need, 
While in tears thou goest 
Casting in the seed. 

May He bless the harvest 
Giving great increase! 

May He bless the toilers 

With His love and peace! 
When in joy thou bearest 

Home the sheaves, may He 
With His Mother Mary 

Come to welcome thee! 


POEMS. 


149 


®o Dear ISeSimnD apotljer, gear’s spap, 1893. 


Blest be the coming year for thee 
Dear Mother, with all blessings rare! 

May the sweet Infant-Saviour be 
Thy solace still in pain and care. 

We will not ask that thou be freed 
From every sorrow, for we know 

The heart that loves its Spouse must bleed 
In union with His better woe. 

But we will ask that He who lays 
The cross upon thy shoulders here 

May bear it with thee all thy days. 

And draw thee to His Heart more near. 

And we will ask that Mary’s love 
And Joseph’s tender care be thine; 

Until thou’rt safe in heaven above 
United to thy Spouse divine. 

Wilt thou not to this Infant pray 
For us, thy children, Mother dear. 

Who wish thee, in this festal day, 

A happy, happy, glad New Year? 


POEMS. 


150 


tE:o »sr)alen oe UDa^^it ^a^ 27. 1892 


Hail, sweet saint! whose love was ever 
Centered in thy Spouse divine; 

Earthly pleasures ne’er could sever 
From Him that pure heart of thine. 

Love it was that made thee fashion 
For thy brow a thorny crown, 

Made thee weep in deep compassion 

O’er the cross that weighed Him down. 

Love it was, when bitter anguish 
Crushed thy spirit, made thee cry, 

“For Thy sake. Lord, let me languish 
Here to suffer, not to die.” 

Lily culled from Carmel’s bowers 
In the lovely month of May, 

Fairest thou of all the flowers 
Laid at Mary’s feet to-day! 

Choirs of angels bright surround thee; 
Jesus’ smile beams in thee now. 

For the thorns on earth that crown’d thee 
Radiant gems adorn thy brow! 


POEMS. 


Oh! sweet saint, we know thou’rt pleading" 
Now for one who bears thy name, 

One who Jesus’ summons heeding 
Like thee. His true Spouse became. 

Like thee, too. His sorrows sharing. 

Pain and anguish she has known. 

And while heavy crosses bearing 
Sought relief from Him alone. 


Ask of Him, the Lamb whose splendor 
Lights the glorious courts above, 
Through His Mother’s hands to send her 
Countless tokens of His love. 

Hope, her exile drear to brighten; 

Faith to feel Him still more near; 

And, her daily cross to lighten. 

Love that casteth out all fear. 

He who made Himself our Brother 
Will not unto thee say nay; 

He will grant our own dear Mother 
All thou’lt ask for her to-day. 


152 


POEMS. 


t!i:o Dear i^eDereuD ^otljer, 
jfeasft of £par^ iSpasDalm De pa^^t, ISS2. 

Like a sunbeam through a cloud-rift 
When the storm is passing o’er, 

Comes thy feast to-day to banish 
Sorrow from our hearts once more! 

Oh, how good is God! His mercies 
All His works by far exceed. 

He has hearkened to us pleading 
In our time of sorest need. 

He has granted us the favor 

That we sought with many a tear; 

At the helm to guide us onward 

He has left thee. Mother dear. 

When the prince of darkness tempted 
Others, on thy ruin bent, 

All the snares they wove around thee 
By God’s mighty hand were rent. 

Harmless fell the poisoned arrows 
Aimed at thee by foes concealed. 

He, whose vineyard thou wert guarding, 
Made His Sacred Heart thy shield. 


POEMS. 


153 


Slander’s venom could not reach thee, 
For His arms were ’round thee thrown; 
To thy trust thou hadst been faithful 
And He made thy cause His own. 

O may He, in mercy, leave thee 
Many years our guide to be; 

Till we learn in very earnest 
How to keep our Rule like thee. 


54 


POEMS. 


May the New Year bring to thee 
Dearest Mother, blessings rare; 

And the Babe on Mary’s knee 
Make thy future bright and fair. 

He whose faithful spouse thou art 
To our pleading will reply; 

And for thee, His Sacred Heart 
Will each needful grace supply. 

May thy crosses lighter grow 

This bright New Year day by day, 

And the waves of sorrow flow 
From thy pathway far away. 

Joseph’s care, and Mary’s love 
Keep thee ever. Mother dear. 

And angelic choirs above 

Guard thee through the coming year. 


POEMS. 


155 


^0 patricb^ 

Saint of Erin, holy pastor, 

Ardent, zealous man of God 
In the footsteps of the Master 
None more faithful ever trod. 

Thou art of a martyr nation 
Patron, advocate, and guide. 

And amidst its desolation 
Thou art still its hope and pride. 

Round thee, too, its exiles gather 
In a land where faith and love 
Colder seems — do thou, oh, father. 
Keep watch o’er us from above! 


POEMS. 


156 


Hetnbuere 2r>omme» 

Joy o’er every heart is surging 
Like the ocean waves to-day; 

Vanished are the clouds which lately 
Darkly hung above our way. 

Still our dear Reverend Mother 
Fills her place — ah! what shall we 
For this great and priceless favor 
Render, dearest Lord, to Thee? 

Thou hast heard our prayer, O Jesus, 
Thou didst know that we had need 
Of a hand both firm and gentle 
Unto to Thee our steps to lead! 
Faithfully through pain and sorrow 
She has served Thee — what shall we 
For this true and loving Mother 
Render, dearest Lord, to Thee? 

Ah! we know what Thou wilt answer 
“Keep your Rule, and love the poor. 
Thus shall you repay your Mother, 
And a heavenly crown secure.” 

Yes, dear Lord, we firmly purpose 
That our Rule intact shall be; 

Unto death our faithful service 
Shall we render. Lord, to Thee! 


POEMS. 


157 


^ater 2Doloro0a* 

Beneath the rough cross seated, 
Our stricken Mother sees 

The sacrifice completed: 

The Victim on her knees. 

Her God, her life, her treasure. 

Her Babe of years ago 

Is dead! who now can measure 
The depth of Mary’s woe? 

Dead! but oh! who has driven 

Nails through His hands and feet? 

Dead! but oh! who has riven 
His Heart, so calm and sweet? 

Whose task was it to fashion 
The thorn-wreath for His head? 

Who caused His bitter Passion 
And crucified Him dead? 

Oh! Mother we have laid Him 
Lifeless, thine arms within; 

Our countless crimes have made Him 
Love’s holocaust for sin! 

Those thorns our pride betoken. 
Harsh, haughty, unsubdued. 

His Sacred Heart was broken 
By our ingratitude. 


158 


POEMS. 


His open wounds still bleeding 
Proclaim what we have done. 
Yet thou art interceding 

For those who slew thy Son! 
Can we of One ask pardon 
Whom we have treated thus, 
And still our own hearts harden 
To those who injure us? 


POEMS. 


159 


®o Dear §>ister 519. Cupljrasta on i)ct MDrr lubtlee. 


Dearest Sister, in the spring-time 
When the early violets blow 
Thou didst pledge thy vows to Jesus 
Twenty-five long years ago. 

O, the joy of that espousal! 

Through the vista of those years 
Gleaming like a ray of sunlight, 

That thrice happy day appears! 

Snow lay on the ground that morning: 

Emblem of the purity 
That the spotless Queen of virgins 
In her children loves to see. 

Emblem, too, of that sweet virtue 
Charity, beloved of all. 

Whose soft mantle, like a snow-drift 
O’er the neighbor is let fall. 

Blest humility is symbol’d 
By the violets that hide 
In some quiet, mossy corner. 

Spreading fragrance far and wide. 
That the meek and gentle Jesus 
Give to thee these virtues rare 
With His own sweet, loving spirit, 

Is for thee our fervent prayer! 


i6o 


POEMS. 


May He grant thee many graces 
And make thy heart like His own 
May He show to thee the mercy 
That to chosen ones is shown. 
May thy patron saint, Euphrasia, 
Win rich gifts to-day for thee; 
Jesus, Mary, Joseph, bless thee 
On thy Silver Jubilee. 


POEMS. 


l6l 


^0 tiear ^imt on t\)t 25t\) anniberoar^ 

of ^tx J^ol^ profeooion^^ept^ 22, 1904^ 

Countless graces, choicest blessings, 

This great day we wish to thee; 

May thy patron, St. Alphonsus, 

Bless thy Silver Jubilee! 

Twenty-five long years, clear Sister, 

Hast thou counted since the day 

Thou didst pledge the vows that bound thee 
To the Sacred Heart for aye. 

Many happy hours and holy 

Thou hast in His service spent — 

Toiling in the kitchen lowly 
Ever cheerful and content. 

Sister dear, thy steps are numbered. 

And the drops that trickle down 

From thy brow when hot and weary 
Shall be jewels in thy crown! 

Thine has been the lot of Martha 
‘'Busy with much serving,’’ yet 

At the Master’s feet with Mary 
Toil and care thou canst forget. 


POEMS. 


Oh! how sweet to serve Him daily 
As His Mother did of old, 

In the humble home of Joseph 
With a love and joy untold. 

Still more sweet before the altar 
Oft to kneel in fervent prayer; 

Speaking heart to heart with Jesus 
For His home on earth is there. 

So with Martha and with Mary 
May the future pass for thee; 

Till the loving Master calls thee 
To an endless Jubilee! 



1 




POEMS. 


163 


ttie Dear ^imt 3f|nfirmarian, ^agUalen, 

on \)tt g)ilber ^lubilee^ 

May God bless thee, dearest Sister 
On thy Silver Jubilee; 

May His choicest gifts and graces 
Be poured down this day on thee! 

May He bless thy heart so tender, 

And thy tongue so free from guile; 

Never yet did word of slander 
Or deceit thy lips defile. 

May He bless thy hands, that ever 
Willing help to others lent; 

Hands that found no task too lowly 
That His holy will had sent. 

May He bless thee for the kindness 
Ever shown, in word and deed. 

To the poor, the sick, the stranger, 

To each Sister in her need. 

Twenty-five long years, dear Sister, 

Humbly toiling day by day. 

Thou hast been the spouse of Jesus 
Oh, may He thy toils repay. 


164 


POEMS. 


And because thou hast been faithful 
Over little things, may He 
Give to thee a crown of glory 
In a blest eternity. 


POEMS. 


165 


Reverend Father, we would thank you 
But you labor for Our Lord, 

And the gratitude of creatures 
Would be but a poor reward; 

Yet the many acts of kindness 
Shown to us for Jesus’ sake 
Calls for acknowledgment so loudly 
That we some return must make. 

When before the altar kneeling 
We our hidden God adore, 

We will ask that loving Saviour 
On you choicest gifts to pour. 

We will pray that He may hide thee 
Deep within His wounded side. 

And there far from every danger 
May you ever more abide. 

Oh! may He who dwelleth ever 
In the Sacrament of love. 

Cherish you who daily bring Him 
From His heavenly throne above. 
Here to reign upon our altar. 

Here to listen while we pray. 

And within our hearts reposing 

Steal our thoughts from earth away. 


POEMS. 


166 

In that hour of sweet communion, 
Speaking with Him heart to heart, 
We will pray that you may never 
From the narrow path depart. 

May He guard you through life’s exile. 
And when death for you shall come. 
May His angels bear your spirit 
To their everlasting home. 


POEMS. 


167 



(Peast of the Patronage of St. Joseph, 1901.) 


Life has many cares and trials — 

Go to Joseph in them all. 

He will give thee rest when weary 
Cheer thee when the way is dreary, 
Raise thee shouldst thou chance to fall. 

Dost thou crave more love for Jesus? 

Go to Joseph in thy needs. 

In his heart pure love is burning 
And, his guardian’s love returning, 

Jesus grants when Joseph pleads. 

Would’st thou have more love for Mary? 

Go to Joseph, Mary’s Spouse. 

He who during life watched o’er her 
Thy desire will lay before her. 

And her love will thine arouse. 

Would’st thou be more poor in spirit? 

Go to Joseph; he was poor. 

Jesus and the Virgin Mother 
Were his treasures, and no other 
Riches could his soul endure. 


POEMS. 


168 


Would’st thou be more pure and holy? 

Go to Joseph; in his hand 
See the lily, white, unspotted. 

Emblem of the state allotted 
To the chosen Virgin band. 

Dost thou seek more true obedience? 

Go to Joseph; he obeyed 
When the mandate sent from heaven 
‘Tnto Egypt fly” was given. 

Not an instant he delayed. 

Would’st thou love the works of mercy? 

Go to Joseph; he will make 
Christ’s dear members, though most lowly. 
Unto thee seem objects holy 
For the Queen of mercy’s sake. 

When for thee death’s chill hand beckons 
Go to Joseph; he will bring 
Mary and her Son to cheer thee. 

With them and St. Joseph near thee 
Death for thee will have no sting. 


POEMS. 


169 


“iFigljt tl)c «ooa of Mti).” 

(Feast of St. Michael, May Stli.) 

See the great St. Michael 
Trampling on the foes 
That he flings from heaven, 

To the depths below. 

Take his sacred standard, 

Tread the path he trod; 

Like his be thy watchword: 

‘‘Who is like to God?” 

Let faith be the weapon 
That thy hand shall bear; 

For thy shield and buckler 
Take thou hope and prayer. 

Rest not, till beneath thee 
Conquered lie thy foes — 

Earth is meant for labor. 

Heaven for repose! 

Heed not the sharp thorns 
Strewn beneath thy feet; 

Look above, where wait thee 
Roses fair and sweet. 

Take thy cross up bravely. 

It can never be 
Heavy as the rough one 
Jesus bore for thee. 


POEMS. 


Not the soul enjoying 
Perfect peace and calm; 

But the soul that suffers 
Wins the martyrs’ palm. 

Gold to be made finer 
Must by fire be tried; 

Love to be made purer 
Must be crucified. 

Kiss the hand that smites thee, 
Bless the chastening rod; 

Trials are sweet tokens 
Of the love of God. 

Courage! Heaven suffers 
Violence, and they 

Who are most in earnest 
Bear the prize away! 

Only be thou faithful 
In the daily strife; 

Jesus will reward thee 
With the crown of life. 

Oh, the joy ecstatic 
When, the battle won, 

Thou shalt hear the sweet words, 
“Faithful soul, well done!” 


APPENDIX. 


On the eve of the Feast of our Lady of Mercy, 
1845, His Holiness, Pope Gregory XVL, was 
graciously pleased to mark his approbation of the Sis¬ 
ters of Mercy by granting to the whole Institute an 
Octave to the Feast of Our Lady of Mercy and a 
plenary indulgence, on the usual conditions, to all the 
faithful who visit the chapel belonging to the Order. 

The following is translated from the rescript sent 
to St. Catharine’s, Baggot street, Dublin: “From an 
audience 23d Sept., 1845, Pope Gregory XVL has 
graciously granted to all the faithful who are truly 
penitent, have confessed their sins, received holy com¬ 
munion, and visit the churches of the Sisters of Mercy 
erected, or to be erected, on the 24th of September, 
the Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercies, and 
on the days of the Octave of the same feast — and 
who then pray for the propagation of the Faith, a 
plenary indulgence that is available forever, and ap¬ 
plicable, by way of suffrage to the souls in purgatory.” 

Our Most Holy Lord, Leo XIII. kindly deigned to 
declare as privileged in pcrpetuum the altar of the 
chapel existing in the religious house of the Sisters of 
Mercy living in the Convent of St. Joseph in the Arch- 


172 


APPENDIX. 


diocese of St. Louis, for cll the Masses which at the 
same altar will be celebrated by any priest, secular or 
regular, in favor of the souls of the Sisters, the 
relatives, whether by blood or affinity, of the same Sis¬ 
ters to the third degree inclusive. 

The association of St. Anthony of Padua is canon¬ 
ically established at the Convent of Mercy, St. Louis, 
Mo., and affiliated to the universal association of St. 
Anthony founded at Padua, by permission of the 
Most Rev. J. J. Kain, Archbishop of St. Louis. 

The objects of the Association are: To spread devo¬ 
tion to St. Anthony, and contribute by annual alms 
toward the maintenance of orphans and destitute chil¬ 
dren cared for by the Sisters of Mercy of St. Louis. 

Three hundred and sixty-five Masses are said each 
year at the tomb of St. Anthony for the members, 
besides several Masses daily in the different sanctuaries 
of the Catholic world. 


^tati0tic0 of 

3Io0epl)’o Content of ^ercp in tlouio, 
Morgan ano C^liientp;^0econO &treeto^ 


1856 to 1861. 

Admitted to House of Mercy and Industrial 
School . 

Persons supplied with situations. 

Sick persons visited and relieved in their dwel¬ 
lings .'. 

Many poor families received relief at the Con¬ 
vent, vi^.: Coal, flour, meat, bread and 
vegetables. 

Clothing for the poor was prepared and dis¬ 
tributed during the year but specially at 
Christmas. 

Night schools for poor girls were very success¬ 
fully conducted. 

Girls in St. Xavier’s Parish School taught free 
of charge. 

A large number of adult externs (female) re¬ 
ceived instructions in preparation for the Sac¬ 
raments by the Sisters. 

Sunday-school for colored females. 

City jail visited twice a week. 

City hospital visited once a week. 

173 


448 

2,848 

162 


200 






174 


STATISTICS. 


i86i to 1873. 

(July 16, 1861, the convent removed to Morgan and Twenty-second 


Streets, St. Louis, Mo.) 

Servants supplied with situations.7o4i 

Admitted to the House of Mercy and Industrial 

School .1,842 

Average daily number in House of Mercy. 45 

Sick poor visited and relieved in their own 
homes. 898 


Convent parish free school. 

City jail visited twice a week. 

Military Hospitals, Fifth street, visited every 
week till the end of war. 

Benton street hospital. 

Military prison and hospital on Gratiot and 
Fifth streets. 

Relief given to the poor. 

The Refuge Hospital visited. 

County poor-house. 

1864 to 1871. 

Convent Parish School for Girls. In attendance 600 
(Three-fourths of these children were taught 
gratis, many receiving books free and given 
their dinner every day.) 

1871 to 1873. 

An infirmary for women and children opened in 1871. 

Patients . ^03 

Baptisms . 10 








STATISTICS. 

1873. 

The Infirmary for Women developed into St. John’s 
Hospital for Men and Women. 

Servants supplied with situations. 811 

Admitted to the House of Mercy. 139 

Average daily number. 30 

Sick visited and relieved when necessary. 

Poor families relieved at the convent. 108 

Patients admitted to the Hospital (including 

310 city patients). 318 

Out-patients attending the dispensary. 200 

Patients baptized in Hospital. 14 

Baptisms in House of Mercy. 8 

1874 - 

Persons supplied with situations. 555 

Admitted to the House and Industrial School. . 571 

Sick visited by the Sisters. 77 

Patients admitted to the Hospital (including 

330 city patients). 585 

Out-patients attending the dispensary. 871 

Poor families receiving assistance at the convent 

^aily . 39 

1875 - 

Persons supplied with situations.1,006 

Admitted to the Home and Industrial School. . 582 

Patients admitted to the Hospital. 362 

Out-patients attending the dispensary.1,000 

Sick visited and assisted when necessary. 139 




















176 


STATISTICS. 


Poor families relieved at the convent. 150 

Baptisms in the Institution, children and adults 15 

First Communicants. 35 

Deaths . 14 

1876. 

Persons supplied with situations...1,007 

Admitted to the Home and Industrial School. . 532 

Patients admitted to the Hospital. 284 

Charity patients. 61 

Baptisms . 24 

First Communicants. 63 

Deaths . 10 

Sick visited and assisted. 104 

Poor families assisted when necessary . 51 

Out-patients attending the dispensary. 600 

Female Night Refuge opened December 22, 

1876. Admitted. 33 

Externs instructed. 130 

1877 - 

Persons provided with situations.1,342 

Admitted to the Home and Industrial School. . 644 

First Communicants in Home and Industrial 

School . 47 

Baptisms in Home and Industrial School. 7 

Admitted to the Night Refuge. 847 

Lodgings given in one month (average number) 685 
Female patients, of which fifty were charity. . . 140 

Male patients, of which ten were charity. 85 





















STATISTICS. 177 

Baptisms in hospital. 6 

Deaths . 3 

Oiit-patients attending the dispensary. 360 

Sick visited, and relief given where necessary. . 149 

Poor relieved at convent. 135 

Externs receiving religious instruction. 156 

Children taught in the country missions; colored 
and white prepared for the sacraments. Ca¬ 
tholic children in the Asylum for the Blind 
prepared for the sacraments. 225 

1878. 

Servants provided with situations.1,000 

Admitted to the Home and Industrial School. . 900 

Average number in the House of Mercy (daily) 40 

Baptisms . 7 

First Communicants in House of Mercy. 20 

Female patients admitted to hospital. 250 

Male patients admitted to hospital. 95 

Charity patients. 30 

Baptisms in Hospital. 5 

Deaths . 12 

Out-patients attending the dispensary. 4,532 

Admitted to the Night Refuge.11^552 

Visitations to the sick. 500 

Families assisted at the convent. 100 

Extern children prepared for sacraments; Ca¬ 
tholic children in the Asylum for the Blind 
prepared for the sacraments. 170 





















178 


STATISTICS. 


1879. 

Servants provided with situations.1,160 

Admitted into the Home and Industrial School 600 

Admitted to the Night Refuge.4>974 

Baptisms in House of Mercy. 10 

First Communicants in House of Mercy. 21 

Externs receiving religious instructions. 15 

Poor families relieved at the convent. 79 

Sick poor visited and relieved in their dwellings 300 

Female patients admitted into the hospital. 132 

Male patients admitted into the hospital. 122 

Charity female patients. 48 

Charity male patients. 14 

Out-patients, medical cases.1,300 

Out-patients, surgical cases.1,500 

Out-patients, children’s clinic. 811 

Out-patients, oculists clinic. 300 

Out-patients, ear and throat clinic. 152 

Out-patients, dental clinic. 20 

Out-patients, Dr. Papin’s clinic.1,000 

Children prepared for the sacraments in Nor¬ 
mandy ; Rock Springs. Sunday-school for 
colored children. Children from the Asylum 
for the Blind instructed for the sacraments. 

1880. 

Servants provided with situations. 595 

Admitted into the Home and Industrial School 516 
Admitted into the Night Refuge.6,152 





















STATISTICS. lyg 

Baptisms in House of Mercy. 3 

First Communicants. 28 

Externs receiving religious instruction. 35 

Visitations to the sick. 209 

Poor families relieved at the convent. 29 

Female patients in the hospital. 135 

Male patients in the hospital. 130 

Charity female patients. 19 

Charity male patients. g 

Deaths . 27 

Baptisms in the hospital.;. 10 

First Communicants in the hospital. 8 

Out-patients, medical clinic.1,216 

Surgical clinic.1,525 

Female clinic (Dr. Papin’s). 855 

Children’s clinic.1,221 

Oculist’s clinic. 972 

Ear and throat clinic. 139 

Dental clinic. 33 

Prescriptions filled, including 3000 given in 

charity in the Free Dispensary.11,500 

City jail visited weekly. 

City Hospital visited weekly. 

Sunday-school for the Children of the Asylum 
for the Blind. 

Three other Sunday-schools. 























i8o 


STATISTICS. 


1881. 

Servants provided with situations.1,670 

Admitted into the Home and Industrial School 347 

Admitted into the Night Refuge.4,000 

Visitations to the sick. 200 

Receiving relief at the convent daily. 39 

Female patients in the hospital. 162 

Male patients in the hospital. 202 

Charity female patients. 16 

Charity male patients. 17 

Deaths . 20 

Out-patients attending the dispensary.1,269 

Instructions to children preparing for the 
sacraments in out-schools. Children taught 300 
City jail visited weekly. 

City Hospital visited weekly. 

Baptisms . 44 

First Communicants. 

1882. 

Servants provided with situations.i,745 

Admitted into Home and Industrial School.... 763 

Admitted into,Night Refuge; lodgings.5,000 

First Communicants. 

Externs instructed. ^2 

Visitations to the sick. 250 

Poor fed at the convent. 6^ 




















STATISTICS. l8l 

Female patients. i^o 

Male patients. 

Charity patients. 

Deaths . 20 

Out-patients attending dispensary.14,000 

Sunday-schools. 

City jail visited weekly. 

City Hospital visited weekly. 

Members Sick Aid Association. 300 

1883. 

Servants provided with situations..1,921 

Admitted into the Home and Industrial School 836 

Admitted into the Night Refuge.3,300 

First Communicants. 3y 

Externs instructed and prepared for the 

sacraments . joy 

Visitations to the sick. 129 

Poor fed at the convent. 300 

Patients in the hospital. 436 

Out-patients attending dispensary.16,240 

Sunday-schools. 2 

City jail visited weekly. 

City Hospital visited weekly, Male. 

City Hospital visited weekly, Female. 

Deaths . 29 

Sick Aid Association. 300 




















i 82 


STATISTICS. 


1884. 

Servants provided with situations.2,015 

Admitted into the House of Mercy. 700 

Admitted into the Night Refuge.3,000 

Sick poor visited and assisted. .. 250 

Poor fed at the convent.1,080 

Patients admitted into the hospital. 568 

Deaths . 16 

Sick Aid Association. 300 

Out-patients attending dispensary.16,000 

First Communicants. 30 

Converts . 19 

Externs instructed. 25 

Charity patients in hospital during year. 102 

City jail visited weekly. 

City Hospital visited weekly, Male. 

City Hospital visited weekly. Female. 


1885. 


Servants provided with situations.3,242 

Admitted into the Home. 753 

Admitted into the Night Refuge.5,475 

Sick visited and assisted. 77 

Poor fed at the convent. 730 

Poor families receiving baskets of provisions. . 26 

Patients in the hospital. 642 

Out-patients attending dispensary.16,247 






















STATISTICS. 


183 


Deaths . 

Articles of clothing. 

Baptisms . 

First Communicants. 

Enrolled in the scapulars. 

City jail, and Female and Male Hospitals visited 
weekly. 


33 

195 

17 

21 

75 


1886. 


Servants provided with situations.3,500 

Admitted into the Home. 593 

Female Night Refuge. 593 

Converts baptized. 15 

Visitations to the sick. 82 

Poor families receiving provisions. 38 

Number of patients in the hospital. 499 

Out-patients attending dispensary.12,520 

City jail visited weekly. 


1887. 


Girls provided with situations. 714 

Out-patients attending dispensary.18,869 

Admitted into the Home. 560 

Admitted to the Night Refuge.2,190 

Visitations to the sick. 94 

Patients admitted into the hospital. 561 

City jail visited weekly. 





















184 


STATISTICS. 


1888. 

Girls provided with situations. 741 

Admitted into the Home and Industrial School 558 

Admitted to the Female Night Refuge.2,860 

Converts baptized. 11 

Visitations to the sick. 116 

Received food at the convent. 56 

Received articles of clothing. 365 

Total number in hospital. 340 

Out-patients attending dispensary.20,870 

City jail visited weekly. 

1889. 

Servants provided with situations.. 673 

Admitted into the Home and Industrial School 578 

Admitted to the Female Night Refuge.2,819 

Baptisms of Converts. jo 

Sick poor visited. 

Received food and clothing. J04 

Patients in the hospital. 

Charity patients. 23 

Out-patients attending the dispensary.18,441 

First Communicants. ^3 

City Male Hospital visited weekly. 

1890. 

Girls provided with situations. g^g 

Admitted into the Home. g^g 





















STATISTICS. 


i8s 

Admitted into the Industrial School. 121 

Admitted into the Night Refuge.3,255 

Converts baptized. 10 

First Communicants. 6^ 

Visitations to the sick. 109 

Received food and clothing. 113 

Patients admitted to the hospital. 734 

Charity patients. 33 

Deaths. 42 

Out-patients attending the dispensary.14,299 

City jail visited weekly. 

The new St. John’s Hospital, Lucas Place and 
23rd Street, opened August, 1890. 

i8gi. 

Girls provided with situations. 936 

Admitted to the Night Refuge.2,244 

Admitted into the Home.1,171 

Admitted into the Industrial School. 125 

Patients admitted to hospital. 828 

Charity patients. 50 

Young girls consumptives in Berthold endowed 

bed (4 died). ii 

Out-patients attending dispensary.11,225 

Visits to the sick. 520 

Extern poor receiving food. 730 

Adult converts baptized. 9 

First Communicants. 8 

Invested in the scapular. 130 

City jail visited weekly. 

























STATISTICS. 


186 

1892. 

Admitted to the Night Refuge.2,126 

Patients admitted St. John’s Hospital, Lucas 
Place, and in the Infirmary, Morgan and 22nd 

Streets . 844 

Charity patients. 60 

Patients in the Berthold endowed bed. 15 

Out-patients attending the dispensary.13,288 

Visitations to the sick. 265 

Extern poor received food at the convent. 610 

Adults baptized. 18 

First Communicants. 32 

Externs instructed. 25 

Admitted to the Home. ^, 77 ^ 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 60 

Girls provided with situations.IH 59 

City jail visited weekly. 

1893. 

Girls provided with situations.1^500 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 114 

Admitted to the Home.1,300 

Admitted to the Night Refuge. 2,556 

Patients admitted to Infirmary. 305 

Charity patients. 32 

Consumptives in Berthold bed. 4 

Out-patients attending dispensary.1,080 

Converts baptized. 6 
























STATISTICS. 


187 


Visitations to the sick. 337 

Extern poor received food at convent. 35 

First Communicants. 13 

Out-patients.11,450 

City jail visited weekly. 

1894. 

Provided with situations.1,386 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 143 

Admitted to the Home.i,494 

Admitted to the Night Refuge.3-623 

Patients admitted to Infirmary. 223 

Charity patients. 40 

Consumptives in endowed bed. 5 

Visitations to the sick. 375 

Extern poor receiving food at convent.1,095 

Out-patients .17,216 

City jail visited weekly. 

1895. 

Provided with situations. 325 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 170 

Admitted to the Home. 478 

Admitted to Night Refuge. 3,454 

Visitations . 445 

City jail visited weekly. 





















STATISTICS. 


188 

1896. 

Girls provided with situations. 610 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 122 

Admitted to the Home.1,231 

Admitted to the Night Refuge.3,132 

Visitations . 

City jail visited weekly. 

1897. 

Situations provided for girls. 500 

Admitted to the Home.1,187 

Admitted to the Industrial School. lyg 

Admitted to the Female Night Refuge.2,450 

Admitted to the Infirmary. 140 

Fed at the convent door.3,840 

Visitations . ^20 

Adult baptisms. j2 

First Communicants. jo 

City jail and City hospitals visited weekly. 

1898. 

Situations provided for girls.1,037 

Admitted to the Young Girls’ Home.1,700 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 400 

xA.dmitted to the Female Night Refuge. . ..3,150 

Baskets supplied with food and clothing.4,5 50 

Visitations to the sick. 

Adult baptisms. ^ 

Out-patients attending dispensary.9,200 

City jail visited weekly. 
























STATISTICS. 


189 


1899. 

Situations provided for girls.1,096 

Admitted to the Home.i,444 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 125 

Admitted to the Female Night Refuge.2,218 

Visitations to the sick.. 64 

Baskets supplied with food. ..4,632 

Baptisms of converts. 10 

Patients admitted to the Infirmary. 90 

City jail and hospital visited weekly. 


1900. 

Situations provided for girls. 560 

Admitted to the Home.1,364 

Admitted to the Industrial School... 116 

Admitted to the Night Refuge.i,934 

Patients admitted to the Infirmary. 107 

Baskets supplied with food, and some clothing. . 4,386 

Visitations to the Sick. 66 

City jail visited weekly. 


1901. 

Admitted to the Home.1,100 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 56 

Admitted to the Night Refuge.1,460 

Baskets supplied with food.1,980 

Visitations to the sick. 620 

City jail visited weekly. 





















190 


STATISTICS. 


1902. 

Situations provided for girls. 900 

Admitted to the Home...i>236 

Admitted to the House of Mercy Industrial 

School . 102 

Admitted to the Female Night Refuge.1,000 

Patients admitted to Infirmary. no 

Charity patients. 25 

Visitations to the sick. 157 

Baskets supplied with food and clothing.4,000 

Baptisms . 10 

City prison visited weekly. 

1903. 

Situations provided for girls. 713 

Admitted to the Home.ii390 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 106 

Admitted to the Female Night Refuge.2,843 

Extern poor baskets supplied with food.4,231 

The Infirmary was discontinued this year to enlarge 
the accomodation for the girls. 

City jail visited weekly. 

1904. 

Admitted to the Home... 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 76 

Admitted to the Night Refuge. .. 200 

Visitations to the sick. ^5 

Baskets supplied with food, etc.2,954 

City prison visited weekly. 





















STATISTICS. 191 

1905. 

Situations supplied for girls. 411 

Admitted to the Home.i,iio 

Admitted to the Industrial School. 89 

Admitted to the Female Night Refuge. 550 

Extern poor baskets supplied with food and 

clothing .2,000 

Visitations to the sick. 104 

City prison visited weekly 









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